MIRI: Sarawak Energy (SEB) uncovered a third electricity theft case involving the same supermarket chain, following earlier incidents detected at its outlets in Siburan and Serian.
In the latest enforcement operation, the supermarket’s outlet in Miri was found to have carried out illegal direct tapping of electricity using the same method identified in the previous offences.
According to SEB statement issued today (Dec 29), the illegal connection resulted in an estimated loss of RM7,300 per month.
The electricity theft was discovered by Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), SEB’s retail and operations arm, after investigations found cables illegally tapped directly from the incoming mains at the five-foot way.
“The cables were concealed above the ceiling and covered with cable trunks in several areas of the outlet to avoid detection.
“During the operation, SESCO’s meter inspection team removed sectors of the gypsum ceiling to expose the illegal connections before dismantling and seizing all direct tapping cables.
“Investigations have commenced under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or imprisonment for up to five years, or both,” it said.
SEB said that although electricity tariffs in Sarawak were among the most competitive in the region,
some business operators continued to engage in electricity theft.
It warned that unauthorised electricity connections that did not comply with SESCO’s safety standards were illegal and posed serious risks, including electrocution, fire hazards, damage to electrical equipment and potential loss of life.
“Such illegal connections also place strain on the power system, increasing the risk of supply disruptions that cause unnecessary inconvenience to neighbouring premises,” it said.
As part of ongoing efforts to curb electricity theft, SEB said it was actively inspecting relevant supermarket chains and other premises suspected of power theft as ongoing enforcement efforts.
“SESCO’s inspection teams are equipped with the expertise and tools to effectively detect concealed and unauthorised connections, including complex setups designed to avoid detection,” it said.
The public is encouraged to report suspected power theft by contacting Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre or using the SEB cares app. All reports will be kept confidential.
According to SEB statement issued today (Dec 29), the illegal connection resulted in an estimated loss of RM7,300 per month.
The electricity theft was discovered by Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), SEB’s retail and operations arm, after investigations found cables illegally tapped directly from the incoming mains at the five-foot way.
“The cables were concealed above the ceiling and covered with cable trunks in several areas of the outlet to avoid detection.
“During the operation, SESCO’s meter inspection team removed sectors of the gypsum ceiling to expose the illegal connections before dismantling and seizing all direct tapping cables.
“Investigations have commenced under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or imprisonment for up to five years, or both,” it said.
SEB said that although electricity tariffs in Sarawak were among the most competitive in the region,
some business operators continued to engage in electricity theft.
It warned that unauthorised electricity connections that did not comply with SESCO’s safety standards were illegal and posed serious risks, including electrocution, fire hazards, damage to electrical equipment and potential loss of life.
“Such illegal connections also place strain on the power system, increasing the risk of supply disruptions that cause unnecessary inconvenience to neighbouring premises,” it said.
As part of ongoing efforts to curb electricity theft, SEB said it was actively inspecting relevant supermarket chains and other premises suspected of power theft as ongoing enforcement efforts.
“SESCO’s inspection teams are equipped with the expertise and tools to effectively detect concealed and unauthorised connections, including complex setups designed to avoid detection,” it said.
The public is encouraged to report suspected power theft by contacting Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre or using the SEB cares app. All reports will be kept confidential.