CEDIS and distribution system users have now suffered the consequences of thefts of distribution network components in the area of Berane and the surrounding municipalities for the seventh time since the beginning of July, and for the eightieth time since August 2015. Specifically, unknown individuals took advantage of the de-energised state of the 10 kV “Dolac” power line, caused by a fault during the storm on 26 July (Friday), and stole transformer oil from the transformer stations “Praćevac”, “Lubnice 1” and “Bastahe”.
After the weather conditions had stabilised, crews inspected the power line and replenished the missing 350 litres of oil, after which the transformer stations were put back into operation. This time there was no significant damage to the transformer stations, because the crews discovered the theft during their inspection and the facilities were energised only after the missing quantity of transformer oil had been replenished; otherwise, the transformers would have burned out.
At CEDIS, we are particularly concerned that the continuous damage to facilities in Region 3 (Berane, Rožaje, Andrijevica, Plav, Petnjica, Gusinje) has not resulted in the perpetrators being identified and sanctioned, even though we are taking all measures prescribed by law to protect our property and ensure a reliable electricity supply for our users.
CEDIS has also reported these cases to the police, and criminal complaints have been filed against unknown persons.
We emphasise that, in addition to the material damage suffered by CEDIS, our users are left without electricity until the damage is repaired, which can often take up to 48 hours.
We remind the public that any unauthorised access to electricity infrastructure facilities is extremely risky.
For negligible material gain, individuals risk their lives, disrupt the regular electricity supply and cause damage to the distribution system that far exceeds any potential benefit they might receive.
The items most frequently targeted by thieves are copper from transformers and power lines, transformer oil, L-shaped profiles from distribution network poles, and doors and windows at transformer stations.
We urge citizens to report any unauthorised activity at pole-mounted equipment and transformer stations to CEDIS or the Police Directorate, thereby helping to curb this high-risk form of theft. CEDIS will continue to take all measures prescribed by law to protect its property and ensure a reliable electricity supply for its users.
