Thieves bring down O2 network

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Millions of O2 customers across the South-east of England were unable to make calls or send text messages for most of the day yesterday as network equipment owned by the company was stolen in the early hours of the morning.

O2 users in Kent, West Sussex, North and east London were without service until approximately 4.30pm, after 17 hours of being unable to use their phone.

Customers of Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff were also affected, as both use the O2 network. O2 said it would not be issuing compensation.