WA POLICE are investigating the theft of four tugboat propellers weighing a combined eight tonnes from an industrial yard on the Burrup Peninsula, in what authorities describe as one of the most audacious maritime‑equipment thefts seen in the region.
The propellers, each two tonnes and almost three metres across, were stored in custom-built transport frames at a yard near Dampier, 1530 kilometres north of Perth.
Police believe the theft occurred sometime between 18 December 2025 and 29 May 2026, and say heavy machinery would have been required to remove the equipment.
The owner of the propellers has not been publicly identified, but police estimate the replacement cost at around $2 million. The units are made from a bronze–nickel alloy with a high copper content, making them attractive to scrap-metal thieves.
Copper theft has escalated across Western Australia, driven by strong resale value and demand from sectors including electricity infrastructure and artificial intelligence manufacturing. Police suspect the propellers may be broken down and sold into the scrap market and have contacted recyclers across the Pilbara.
Karratha metal recycler Mohammed Ghambarie told ABC Pilbara he had been approached by police and confirmed the existence of a “thriving black market” for copper scrap. He estimated the thieves might make around $72,000 from the haul but said a brand‑new tug propeller would “raise red flags” for legitimate operators.
The Burrup Peninsula hosts major industrial operations, including Woodside’s gas facilities. Woodside confirmed the stolen equipment does not belong to the company.
Police are urging the public and scrap dealers to report suspicious copper sales. The investigation continues.
