NEWS & UPDATES

KUCHING 

12 DECEMBER 2024

Sarawak Energy, through its operational and retail arm Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), recently discovered two cases of illegal underground power tapping during operations at Jalan Kapor and Jalan Stampin Tengah, Kuching. 

Investigations by SESCO’s meter inspection team – conducted as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public safety and curb electricity theft – revealed that the culprits had concealed direct tapping cables underground to bypass electricity meters to steal electricity.

In both cases, the direct tapping cables were hidden in concrete outside the residential houses near the meter boxes. Investigations are being carried out under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM200,000 and/or imprisonment of up to five years.

Power theft via underground direct tapping poses severe safety risks to the surrounding area as the unauthorised setup does not comply with SESCO’s stringent safety standards. Such illegal connections can lead to electrical fires, electrocution, and damage to electrical infrastructure. It can also compromise the stability of the electricity supply, affecting nearby communities.

The utility remains committed to combating electricity theft statewide and will continue collaborating with relevant authorities to ensure offenders are charged accordingly. Its highly trained meter inspection teams are equipped with advanced tools to detect and effectively address various forms of power theft.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities involving electricity theft to Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All reports will be kept strictly confidential.

The location of direct tapping cables hidden under concrete near the meter board outside a house at Jalan Kapor where the power theft allegedly took place.

Contractors hacking the concrete near the meter board to expose the direct tapping cables

Contractors hacking concrete near meter box area to uncover the hidden direct tapping cable at a house at Jalan Stampin Tengah where the power theft allegedly took place.

Close up of the direct tapping cable near the drain after the removal of concrete outside a house at Jalan Stampin Tengah where the power theft allegedly took place.