A SUSPECTED thief was arrested after allegedly attempting to steal a ‘large quantity’ of cables from Fiddler’s Ferry Power Station.

Police spotted a man ‘acting suspiciously’ at the site, which closed in March 2020, during patrols last night.

After a short chase on foot, he was arrested on suspicion of theft and going equipped for theft – having been found in possession of tools and cutting equipment.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “During a routine patrol of a crime hotspot near to Fiddler’s Ferry Power Station, officers have disturbed persons acting suspiciously in a remote unlit location.

“After short foot chase, a male was detained and subsequently arrested for going equipped to steal and theft.

“It is alleged that the male was in possession of tools and cutting equipment.

“In addition, a large quantity of cable was located near to him.

“He is now our guest in custody this evening whilst enquiries continue.

“We have made it clear on numerous occasions that cable theft and illegally entering the site is extremely dangerous, and persons engaging in such activity are putting their lives at risk.

“Parts of the power station are still live, and one wrong move can have fatal consequences.

“Despite the risks, officers continue to target known hotspots across the town and we want to make it absolutely clear that criminals are not welcome in our town.”