$1.6M Bridge Cable Stolen, Sold for $15,000 to Buy Food and Drugs

A 39-year-old man is in police custody after allegedly stealing approximately $1.6 million worth of copper cable from the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge and selling it for just $15,000 to buy food and drugs. Police said the suspect, Roy Morgan, was arrested on Wednesday evening at the bridge with cutting equipment. He was reportedly wearing a safety helmet and reflective vest, giving the appearance of a bridge worker.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said Morgan subsequently confessed to stealing the cable and selling it for $15,000. According to Blanhum, Morgan said the money was used to purchase food and drugs.

The stolen material comprised approximately 90 feet of 4/350 KCMIL copper cable, valued at about $1.6 million. The theft occurred sometime between midnight on August 23 and 9 a.m. on September 1.