KUCHING: The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is expected to investigate a series of cable thefts which have severely affected local businesses at the Gala City Commercial Centre here.
Head of the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Public Complaints Bureau, Milton Foo Tiang Wee, revealed that the thefts, which had been taking place since April this year, had affected at least 17 business premises in the area.
According to Foo, all affected units have been left inoperable due to the loss of electricity following the theft of electrical cables.
The thefts are believed to have been carried out by an individual with specialist knowledge of electrical systems.
“The first incident was reported on April 10, and a similar case occurred again on May 25.
“To replace the cables and restore electricity supply, each affected unit has suffered losses exceeding RM1,000.
“However, the financial losses are not the only concern.
“Traders are unable to operate during the repair period and some have been unable to afford the necessary work,” he said when speaking to reporters at the scene.
Foo urged the police to treat the matter with urgency and ensure those responsible were brought to justice.
He added that CCTV footage from the scenes suggested the same individual, known only as ‘Uncle’ and believed to be in his fifties, was behind multiple incidents.
“According to the victims, the footage clearly shows the same person each time.
“So far, there have been no arrests but we believe the suspect is a professional cable thief.
“He knows exactly what to do and has all the tools and equipment needed.
“This cannot be allowed to continue. It has not just happened once or twice, but repeatedly and on a large scale,” he emphasised.
