Thieves Risk Lives for Scrap Metal

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Emergency generator at West Mid stripped of cabling

Last weekend (11th -12th October) thieves stole cabling from an emergency generator at West Middlesex University Hospital. This not only caused thousands of pounds of damage but more importantly put the lives of patients at risk.

It is believed that the cabling was stolen for the scrap value of the metal contained in the cable, which is estimated at to be less than fifty pounds.

Medical Director, Dr Andrew Winning says ‘It is very disappointing that this selfish act could have put patient’s lives at risk. It will also mean that the cost of the replacement cabling will come out of the scarce funds that the hospital has.

“We deplore this type of anti social behaviour which makes our jobs even more challenging than they already are. We would urge anyone with information to contact the local police.

“I am relieved that this incident did not cause harm to anyone and would like to reassure our patients that all services are back to normal.’

Earlier this month an unemployed painter and decorator from Chiswick who caused extensive disruption to local rail services after stealing live cable from railway tracks in the Gunnersbury area was jailed for three years.

October 21, 2008