Police Launch Investigation Into Deliberate Damage of Fibre Optic Cables in South Canberra
Authorities in the Australian Capital Territory are actively seeking information and witnesses following a significant telecommunications disruption in south Canberra last month. The incident, which involved the deliberate damage of critical fibre optic infrastructure, resulted in widespread internet service outages affecting residents and businesses in the area.
Details of the Telecommunications Incident
Investigators have confirmed that cables housed within two separate telecommunications pits located off Athllon Drive in the suburb of Wanniassa were compromised between 1am and 3am on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The targeted damage to these essential conduits directly caused the subsequent internet service interruptions that impacted the local community.
ACT Policing has now formally appealed to the public for assistance in their ongoing investigation. They are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity along Athllon Drive, specifically between Atkins Street and Fincham Crescent, during the early morning hours of January 13.
Appeal for Public Assistance
Police have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward. Individuals can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or submit information via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. When providing details, the public is asked to quote the specific reference number: 8274223.
"Information provided to Crime Stoppers can be done so completely anonymously," a police spokesperson reiterated, emphasising the confidentiality available to potential witnesses.
Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The sabotage of the fibre optic cables represents a serious incident of infrastructure damage. Such acts not only cause immediate service disruptions but can also have broader implications for emergency services, business operations, and residential connectivity in the digital age.
The investigation remains open as police work to determine the motive behind the damage and identify those responsible. The timing of the incident, in the quiet early hours of a weekday morning, suggests a deliberate attempt to avoid detection.
This event highlights the vulnerability of critical telecommunications infrastructure and the community-wide consequences when such assets are compromised. Residents in the affected areas experienced a loss of essential online services until repairs could be completed by telecommunications providers.
