Man in custody over Qld generator thefts

A man has been taken into custody over the theft of much-needed generators in cyclone-stricken Rockhampton.

Acting Detective Inspector Luke Peachey told AAP the man was taken to the Rockhampton Police Station about noon on Wednesday, shortly after a public appeal for information.

It comes after 17 generators were stolen in the area - most used to power dangerous traffic intersections.

It's understood the man is a Rockhampton local.

Acting Det Insp Peachey said a number of new leads had also cropped up thanks to information supplied by the public.

He said those responsible had committed "a low act" and would feel the full force of the law when caught.

"We completely condemn what's happening here," he said.

"It's totally despicable."

If charged and found guilty of a theft offence, offenders could face a maximum of seven years in jail.

Police initially reported four generators stolen at the start of the week, but a spate of thefts has seen the figure jump much higher.

Looters have even plundered generators chained to posts in the Cyclone Marcia disaster zone.

In addition to traffic intersections, generators have also been taken from businesses.

The 17 generators were taken between Saturday and Tuesday, when many residents were stranded without power after the devastating category five storm hit Rockhampton on Friday.