VANDALS have been blamed for lengthy delays to train service on the Warrnambool line on Sunday.
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V/Line chief executive officer Theo Taifalos said vandalism to signal cables near Little River delayed eight trains, including the 9am Southern Cross to Warrnambool service by up to 40 minutes.
"We've referred both incidents to Victoria Police and will do everything we can to stamp out this mindless destruction of public property," Mr Taifalos said.
"As well as the disruption to our customers, the vandals are risking their own lives and causing potentially dangerous situations."
"Who in their right mind would cut a live cable right beside a rail track. It could cost the life of one of these fools."
Vandals also cut signal cables near Rockbank on Sunday evening, blacking out signalling equipment causing delays and cancellations on the Ballarat Line
during Monday morning's peak with services not returning to normal until 2pm Monday afternoon.
"I'd like to thank our customers for their patience this morning while technicians worked to restore the signals," Mr Taifalos said
"Vandalising railway equipment is a criminal act that could ultimately result in an injury or an accident. I urge anyone with any information about this vandalism to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000."