Precious Metals Scavengers — I Hate Those Guys

Precious metals scavengers have delayed the computerized time-until-the-next-train thingamabobbers on the L train. How convenient:

Scavengers have ripped off copper cable from subway stations on the L line, hampering the high-tech system that broadcasts arrival and departure times, the Daily News has learned.

The contractor installing the electronic message boards reported the wiring was filched in “repeated acts of vandalism,” according to a Transit Authority report.

“A thief is a thief is a thief, no matter what the item is,” a TA official said. “If someone can make a buck, they will steal it and try to resell it.

“We’re working with our contractor to make sure they take all necessary precautions to prevent the theft and the resulting delays. We’re also making sure we take steps on our property to secure all of our assets.”

Transit officials say the thefts are partly to blame for delays in completing its ballyhooed Public Address/Customer Information Screen project.