SIBU: A man was arrested after he threatened SESCO’s meter inspection technicians with a deadly weapon earlier this week during a meter replacement exercise. The incident occurred at Jalan Ulu Sungei Merah here when the SESCO team went to the man’s house to replace an electricity meter after tampering activities were detected during a separate meter inspection operation. As part of SESCO’s standard operating procedures, the customer was asked to switch off his electrical appliances for safety reasons, prior to the replacement. However, the customer was not happy with the request and responded negatively.
A SESCO spokesperson said, “When our team tried to communicate with the customer, he came out with a machete (parang) in his hand. He then charged straight at our technicians, shouting profanities. For safety reasons and to avoid confrontation, we retreated from the premises and immediately lodged a police report.”
Acting on the report, the Police immediately arrested the man who was remanded for two days for further investigation. Following the arrest, SESCO’s meter inspection technicians returned to the premises and successfully replaced the meter. All the exhibits were seized as evidence for prosecution. Based on SESCO records, the recent incident was the fourth time the meter was found tampered with since 2015.
SESCO thanked the Police for their swift action and reminded members of the public that obstruction of a meter inspection operation is an offence under Section 32(c) of the Electricity Ordinance, carrying a fine of RM5,000 or jail term of two years or both upon conviction. Stealing electricity is a dangerous crime that endangers lives and can cause damage to electrical appliances. SESCO will continue to actively carry out meter inspections and investigations throughout the state by working closely with the authorities, relevant agencies and members of the public.
Offenders will be charged under Section 33 (5) of the Electricity Ordinance which carries a penalty of RM100,000.00 and or five years’ imprisonment upon conviction. Those with information on power theft are advised to contact SESCO’s power theft hotline at 082-443535 or email customercare@sarawakenergy. com.my.
