Transport for Wales (TfW) has launched an anonymous reporting service, which is designed to help reduce the theft of cable and metal from the railway.

Cable and metal theft causes delays, cancellations and wider disruption on the railway network. Cable theft has been increasing in South Wales recently.

Just two incidents in September last year on the South Wales Valley network cost Transport for Wales (TfW) over £750,000, a figure that does not take into account the cost of service cancellations.

Earlier this year, a West Yorkshire man was jailed for causing £57,000 worth of damage while stealing cable.

Transport for Wales hopes that its launch of TfW Protect will increase the public’s knowledge and understanding of the impact of metal and cable theft on passengers, communities and the wider economy.

It also hopes that by providing a secure and anonymous way to report it by phone or via an online form, it will encourage more people to come forward with information that can help them to reduce this type of theft.

Transport for Wales is encouraging anyone who witnesses or hears something that seems suspicious to report it to TfW Protect. Callers can give whatever information they have, whether it involves specific names, physical descriptions, dates and times, or what3words locations for remote areas. Reports can be made anonymously and will be kept confidential.

People who wish to make a report can do so by phoning 0800 756 3477 or by completing the simple online form at www.TfWProtect.co.uk.

“We’re pleased to be launching TfW Protect, giving people a simple and completely anonymous way to share information about cable and metal theft affecting our railway.

“This type of crime can have a real impact on our customers and communities, and the information people provide can play an important role in helping us protect the network. We’re glad that TfW Protect can give the reassurance that information can be shared safely, confidently and anonymously.”

Josh Hopkins, Head of Security, Risk and Resilience at Transport for Wales