Thieves are risking death as they steal electricity across Angus in growing numbers, police have warned.
Brechin has emerged as a particular hot spot for energy pilferers, with weekly instances being reported in the town.
Chief Inspector Gordon Milne said fiddling with energy meters could have disastrous consequences.
He said: “People are stealing energy and it is a very dangerous practice.
“I am hearing of about one incident a week in Brechin and there is no doubt that meter bypass crimes are becoming increasingly common in the Angus area.
“I am concerned because it is a criminal act and people can rest assured that where offenders are identified we will take action.
“But my greater concern is for the potential dangers of such actions. Tampering with the electric supply can lead to disruption and inconvenience if it causes a break or fault in the supply of energy to people’s homes. But such meddling with power supplies could easily prove fatal.”
In recent times meter bypasses have been identified by the authorities as part of police inquiries into domestic cannabis factories but the police are also seeing the practice being used by dodgers who simply want to avoid paying their bills.
This time last year, Sheriff Richard Davidson called for stiffer penalties against meter cheats, not least because of the very real fire risk their actions posed.
A spokesman for Scottish and Southern Energy said: “Interfering with an electricity meter is not just illegal, but is extremely dangerous. It can cause serious injury, or worse, and can also cause extensive damage to the property.
“We urge the public to get in touch with us or the police if they are aware of anyone illegally interfering with an electricity or gas meter.”