Tougher regulations will soon come into effect from the province to battle increasing copper and scrap metal thefts.

Telus is calling these thefts a safety risk for customers.

According to Telus , they’ve seen a 68-per cent increase in cable thefts across Canada since January, an 80-per cent increase since last year.

In July alone, there were 25 copper thefts in Alberta, with around 10 of those in Edmonton. Thieves are stealing critical cables, knocking out phone and internet access to thousands of customers.

Telus is calling for stricter penalties beyond theft under $5,000, tougher legislation, and more oversight on scrap metal dealers.

“It’s a huge issue. It’s one that’s putting our public safety at risk. It is widespread across Canada, but the most significant increase we’ve seen

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