Four men arrested in connection with an attempted cable theft that resulted in a four hour power cut at QEQM Hospital in Margate face possible charges of criminal damage with intent to endanger life.
As part of an investigation by detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, the four men, aged 38, 37, 35 and 26, were arrested by West Midlands Police yesterday (February 21) in the Birmingham area.
The men were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life and conspiracy to commit theft, and all currently remain in custody.
The power outage on Wednesday (February 20), was caused when the power cables were cut during a suspected theft attempt at around 7pm. It was not restored until just before 11pm.
Ambulances had to divert to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford as the department was unable to accept any more patients. Doctors and nurses were reduced to working by torchlight and mobile phone lights.
Kent Fire and Rescue was brought in to provide emergency flood lighting. Other areas of the hospital were unaffected.
Kent Police continues to appeal for witnesses. Call 01843 222289 quoting 46/34099/19.
Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.