Cable thefts are causing real headaches along the ECRL construction route in Terengganu and the losses are piling up. Between January and May this year alone, police recorded 22 theft-related cases at various project sites, costing an estimated RM300,000 in damages.
According to Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin, the hotspots include five cases in Besut, four in Marang, two in Setiu, and one each in Kemaman and Dungun. So far, 13 investigation papers have been opened.
Out of those, five cases have gone to court under Sections 414 and 379/511 of the Penal Code, which cover handling stolen property and attempted theft. Three more are still under investigation, while five had to be dropped due to lack of solid evidence.
Khairi also noted that cable thefts at ECRL sites are down this year compared to 2023, which saw RM2 million in reported losses. However, he urges contractors not to get complacent, especially when it comes to protecting valuable cables.
“We recommend installing perimeter fencing, CCTV cameras, and adequate lighting—especially at night—alongside deploying sufficient security personnel and maintaining an organised inventory system for materials and equipment,” he said.
