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Copper Theft Attempt Cuts Telus Fibre, Knocking Out Service Across Northwest B.C.

Telus reroutes emergency calls through another carrier to keep 9-1-1 reachable.

Hand holding a smartphone displaying the TELUS logo with a purple‑green gradient, outdoors at sunset near utility poles and cables.
A Telus store. Telus service is disrupted throughout northwest B.C.
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Technicians on site confirmed the damage was caused by vandals attempting to steal copper cables, who cut through the fibre lines.

Overview

  • Telus says vandals targeting copper near Sheraton east of Burns Lake severed fibre lines that carry internet and phone service.
  • The cut disabled internet, cell calls and texts, home phones and some 9-1-1 access across communities from Burns Lake to Haida Gwaii.
  • Telus enabled emergency roaming through another carrier and says crews aim to restore service by late day as Burns Lake RCMP investigate.
  • Northern Health reports 21 sites affected, with acute-care hospitals using Starlink satellite internet to stay online.
  • Businesses lost payment systems, including Prince Rupert vendors who turned away cruise visitors without cash.