A thief may have suffered an electric shock trying to steal electrical cable from a substation in Fife.

A cut earthing cable fell onto a live cable carrying 33,000 volts causing the station in Cardenden to short circuit and a flashover.

Police believe someone was trying to steal the cable at the site on the B9097 Westfield Road between 7pm on Sunday and 6am on Monday.

They are urged to get medical attention if they were injured in the incident.

PC Rick Henderson said: "The theft of this cable is highly dangerous and any person near to a flashover runs the risk of being killed or seriously injured due to the high voltage. I would appeal for any person that may have been injured as a result of this incident to seek medical treatment urgently.

"I also appeal to any person who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area that evening or who may have information relating to the persons responsible to telephone the police."

ScottishPower, who run the substation, are warning people to stay away from live cables.

A spokesperson said: "This cable was live, carrying thousands of volts of electricity. These criminals show a staggering disregard for their own safety, the safety of the public, and that of our employees.

"It is important all our equipment is in service so we can maintain a good quality of electricity supply to all of our customers who depend on our service. Dangerous acts like this not only have the potential to cause serious injury but could also result in widespread loss of electricity supply to homes and businesses.

"It quite simply beggars belief that anyone would put their life on the line by interfering with thousands of volts of electricity to steal small amounts of cable with a minimal scrap value."

Anyone with information about the incident can contact Fife Constabulary on 0845 600 5702 or through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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