Copper cable stolen from powerlines in Kilkenny

3.6 kilometres of copper cable has been stolen from a 38 thousand volt powerline in Co Kilkenny.

The ESB says nine spans of power line were stolen from between Kilkenny and Ballyhale on Wednesday night.

ESB Networks says metal theft is a dangerous activity, with thieves putting their lives at risk.

In recent years, at least three serious injuries and one fatality have been linked to metal theft from ESB Networks.