Gardaí are appealing for information following a spate of telephone cable thefts in the local region in recent months.
Officers say they've received 66 reports of cable theft in the past 6 months, with the vast majority in Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath.
Gardaí say criminals are climbing telephone poles in broad day light, as they remove cables and take the copper inside.
They say the robberies have impacted internet and phone services in more than 1,500 homes so far and leaving some cut off from services for up to 3 days.
Older rural dwellers are particularly vulnerable, as they're cut off from emergency services, medical alarm services and other supports.
Gardaí asking the public to be vigilant and report any discarded cable castings to Gardaí.
An incident room has been set up in Carrickmacross Garda Station and anyone with information is asked to come forward.
