Many streets in Bobadilla Estación, Antequera, have been without lighting for five days after thieves stole around 2,000 metres of copper cable.
The affected streets are in a new part of the town near the feria ground and sports complex and the thefts were not immediately noticed by the authorities.
The cables, which are quite thick, were housed in tubes and access to them is via a manhole. The thieves simply climbed down and hauled out the cable, leaving the streets in darkness.
A new roll of cable has arrived so power should be restored fairly shortly. Hopefully, a padlock has also been ordered for the manhole cover.