Telstra calls in police after 26 exchanges broken into

Telstra is beefing up security at its exchanges after a spate of break-ins across the greater Sydney area.

As first reported by ABC News, 26 exchange buildings were broken into and vandalised in the extraordinary spree.

“Telstra has experienced break-ins at a number of exchanges across the greater Sydney area,” a Telstra spokesperson said.

“All exchange sites are currently operational, however some of these sites will have access restricted or be temporarily closed to all Telstra staff, contractors and wholesale customers until inspections have been completed and any safety issues are resolved.

“Security of our exchanges remains a priority and we are implementing additional security measures across our facilities as a result.”

Telstra said it is working closely with NSW Police “to assist in capturing the offenders”.

The telco said that investigations are ongoing.

Telstra has in the past experienced sporadic incidents of vandalism at exchanges, however the scale of this incident and its geographic concentration is unusual.