SIBU: Sarawak Energy is taking an uncompromising stance against rampant electricity theft here with recent events highlighting the dangers posed by this criminal activity.
During a recent operation, Sarawak Energy’s technical team discovered a double-storey terrace house located in Lorong Indah to be at high risk of fire.
Further investigation traced the cause to unsafe wiring that had been used to steal electricity, thus endangering the surrounding neighbourhood.
“Burn marks on the ceiling were detected, most likely caused by overloaded or loose cables in the main wiring. Upon further inspection, the team uncovered direct tapping cables hidden above the ceiling which were connected to the incoming main wiring.
“The cables used for electricity theft have been seized as evidence. Despite the various tactics used by power thieves, Sarawak Energy is equipped with the necessary tools and highly trained teams to effectively detect such activities.
“This incident underscores the importance of taking swift action against electricity theft, which not only puts the thieves at risk but also endangers the safety of the community,” it said in a statement today.
The power company reiterated that it is committed to intensifying its anti-power theft operations in Sibu, with regular and unannounced meter inspections aimed at detecting any abnormal power consumption resulting from illegal acts.
The utility provider company said more than 40 cases of direct tapping electricity theft have been detected in Sibu this year alone.
“The public is urged to be cautious of illegal connections which are dangerous as they do not meet SESCO’s safety standards. Such connections can lead to unstable electricity supply, damage electrical appliances, and pose a risk of fire, causing a disruption in supply to nearby areas,” it said.
Sarawak Energy reminded the public that electricity theft is a criminal offence under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance.
Anyone found guilty may face a penalty of up to RM100,000 and or five years’ imprisonment.
“The public is warned to disregard any claims made by service providers that offer to reduce electricity consumption or provide unlimited usage of electricity through meter tampering.
“Landlords are also advised to be careful when renting out their premises as they may become implicated in their tenants’ illegal activities,” it said.
Those with any information on electricity theft can contact Sarawak Energy’s customer care centre at 1300-88-311 or email customercare@sarawakenergy.com.
All information received will be treated with confidentiality, Sarawak Energy assured.
