By Our Reporter
A dramatic video has surfaced showing a suspected cable thief falling from the top of a utility pole after being electrocuted by a high-voltage power line. The shocking incident occurred on March 13 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
According to eyewitnesses, the man climbed the utility pole using a ladder as an unsuspecting passerby watched from below. Photos from the scene show the man working on the pole, attempting to cut through a live cable with a tool. After successfully removing what appeared to be a cable box, the situation took a deadly turn.
As soon as he let go of the box, the man reportedly received a powerful electric shock. He immediately stiffened and lost control, falling from the top of the pole. On his way down, he collided violently with a streetlight before hitting the ground with a heavy thud, as captured in the disturbing footage.
Local media reports indicate that the man was rendered unconscious by the high-voltage shock. A nearby security guard is said to have rushed to assist him moments later. However, his exact condition remains unclear. Many who have viewed the video fear he may have died from either the electric shock or the impact of the fall.
A Growing Problem in Brazil
Cable theft is a persistent problem in Rio de Janeiro and other parts of Brazil. Criminals frequently target aluminum cables and other valuable wiring from construction sites, railways, and power grids. The stolen materials are often sold for their scrap metal value, but the consequences go far beyond financial gain for thieves.
The impact on public infrastructure is severe. Theft of power and communication cables leads to widespread service disruptions, affecting everything from internet connectivity to public transportation and emergency services.
According to data from *Conexis Brasil Digital*, more than 5.4 million meters of telecom cables were stolen across Brazil in 2023 alone. This rampant theft not only costs service providers millions but also compromises public safety, as incidents like the one in Rio clearly demonstrate.
A Global Issue
Cable theft is not limited to Brazil. It is a growing global problem, with significant economic losses reported in other countries. In the United States, estimates by *Smart Energy International* suggest that cable theft costs the economy between $1.5 billion and $2 billion annually. These losses include the cost of replacing stolen materials, lost productivity, and damages to infrastructure.
Utility companies and law enforcement agencies around the world continue to explore solutions to curb the rising trend of cable theft, including increased surveillance, stricter penalties, and the use of less valuable materials in wiring. However, as long as the scrap metal market remains lucrative, experts warn that these dangerous and disruptive crimes are likely to continue.
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