KUCHING: Sarawak Energy, through its operation and retail arm Syarikat SESCO Berhad, continues to work closely with local authorities to curb electricity theft which is a dangerous crime.
In its statement yesterday, Sarawak Energy said a recent investigation led to the discovery of another case of electricity theft through underground direct tapping, this time at the Stutong Heights housing estate. This incident followed a prior case in Muara Tabuan.
“Working closely with the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT), SESCO found clear evidence of power theft via direct tapping. The cables used to bypass the electricity meter were concealed under heavy concrete and the team had to engage a contractor to dig through the concrete.
“All cables and other materials used for the direct tapping were confiscated as evidence and a police report lodged. Sarawak Energy recorded losses of more than RM7,000.00 due to unrecorded electricity consumption over the past 36 months for this case alone.”
The corporation added there was also a history of meter tampering at the premises before this incident.
According to Sarawak Energy, as more power theft cases via underground direct tapping are discovered in Kuching, SESCO and MUT will intensify anti-power theft inspections statewide.
“Those found guilty of electricity theft will face charges under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries a penalty of up to RM100,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years.
“Direct tapping of electricity is dangerous as the illegal connections do not adhere to SESCO’s safety standards and can compromise the stability of supply. This increases the risk of fire occurring, damage to electrical appliances and supply interruptions in the area,” the statement said.
Nevertheless, Sarawak Energy assured that SESCO’s technical team had the expertise and specialised tools required to uncover various forms of electricity theft, including those who attempted to conceal the theft underground to avoid detection.
Members of the public are advised against engaging individuals offering to reduce electricity bills or provide meter tampering services.
Landlords are also encouraged to regularly check their property’s electrical wirings to protect themselves from being implicated if their tenants were found to be stealing electricity.
Reports on suspicious activities or encounters with individuals offering meter tampering services can be lodged through Sarawak Energy’s customer care centre at 1300-88-3111 or email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information will be kept strictly confidential.
