KUCHING: Vandalism and attempted theft of electrical assets in Matang here over the past six months caused about RM396,000 in damage and disrupted power supply to surrounding communities, says Syarikat Sesco Bhd.
The operations and retail arm of Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) said 11 cases were recorded in Matang from January to June, involving attempts to steal copper components from electrical transformers and related equipment.
The affected assets supply power to Sri Kandong, Kampung Jaya Bakti, Kampung Rayu and nearby areas, Sesco said in a statement on Friday (July 31).
In a case at Kampung Rayu on June 28, supply was disrupted for about nine hours as the damaged transformer had to be replaced.
"These are not isolated acts of damage. The recent rise in vandalism and attempted theft involving electrical assets in Matang is a serious concern because it can disrupt supply to entire communities, affect daily activities and put lives at risk," Sesco western region general manager Effendy Syaiful Abdullah said.
He warned that damaged electrical equipment may still be energised and can cause serious injury or electrocution.
"We strongly remind the public not to approach, touch, or attempt to inspect any damaged electrical installations," he said.
SEB urged scrap metal dealers to exercise due diligence and stop buying any suspicious scrap as it could be stolen components from Sesco transformers.
It is also working closely with the state Utility and Telecommunication Ministry and the police to address the issue, including conducting joint operations and inspections of recycling centres.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities near Sesco substations and electrical installations to the police or to SEB's customer care centre at 1300-88-3111, customercare@sarawakenergy.com or the SEB Cares app.
