O2 mast in Bedford vandalised multiple times by misguided 5G conspiracy theorists

An O2 phone mast that delivers essential 2G, 3G and 4G connectivity to Bedford residents is being repaired after being vandalised numerous times in September.

It is among a number of mobile phone masts across the UK that have been targeted by 5G conspiracy theorists, even though the Barkers Lane mast does not provide 5G connectivity.

The mast has been taken offline to make the repairs, so residents on the O2 network may be experiencing weakened connectivity.

Engineers are working hard to get the mast back online as soon as possible and any impacted businesses and residents can check in on O2’s Network Status tracker to access the latest information and register for updates.

“Sadly, a number of customers in South Bedford may be experiencing weakened connectivity following attacks that took place on a mast in the South End area,” said Emma Evans, head of network experience at O2.

“These masts connect local residents and businesses to our 2G, 3G and 4G networks, which work together to keep the country connected, support the economy, help vulnerable people reach loved ones and allow essential services and providers to respond to those in need.

“As the UK focuses on rebuilding the economy and protecting people’s health and wellbeing, it’s vital we continue to invest in our network to keep Britain mobile and connected.

“We’d like to assure customers that our engineers are working as fast as they possibly can to bring these masts back online so people in the South Bedford community can get back to working and communicating safely with a strong and reliable mobile network connection.”

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