Five JT mobile phone sites vandalised

Jersey Police are investigating malicious damage to JT's mobile phone network.

Four sites were targeted within a little over 24 hours, between 6:30 pm on Wednesday (2 July) and 7:45 pm on Thursday (3 July).

Disruption to mobile services can be expected in some areas of Jersey as JT works on restoring vandalised mobile phone masts.

999 calls 'should' continue to function, the provider says, but in the case of problems, landlines remain unaffected.

A spokesperson for JT has asked for islanders' patience:

"While regrettable, this is necessary as our engineers are working in challenging and potentially dangerous conditions.

We appreciate your continued patience and understanding, and for everyone’s safety—as well as to support the restoration efforts—we ask the public to stay away from all mobile sites."

The damage occurred at:

• 6:30 pm on Wednesday, 2 July at La Mare Wine Estate, St John,
• 10:45 pm on Wednesday, 2 July at Les Pres d’Auvergne (near car park at L’Etacq),
• 8:30 am on Thursday, 3 July at Les Landes Road, St Ouen,
• 7:45 pm on Thursday, 3 July at Ville au Bas Stables, St. Ouen.

Police say a fifth site was damaged later on Thursday, in the area of La rue au Cerf, St Ouen.  It was reported at 10:00 pm.

Extra security and police patrols have been put in, and officers are in the affected areas speaking to members of the public as part of their enquiries.

A possible suspect has been identified, described as a man aged 40-50 wearing a black fleece with green trousers with blonde hair.

He was last seen in the area of Carrefour Selous at about 5:44 am this morning.

A police statement said:

"Anyone responsible for the damage and considering further actions is putting themselves at risk."

"Members of the public are warned to stay away from all mobile phone sites as extensive damage has taken place and public safety is paramount."

We're told calls to 999 for emergency services remain fully operational.

"Anyone with information regarding the damage or who has observed suspicious activity near mobile phone mast sites during the past two days is requested to contact the police on 612612, using option 2 followed by option 4.

"For any support and technical queries, please refer to JT."

UPDATE 10:30 am: Police have made an arrest in St Mary. A 44 year old man is being questioned.