SANDAKAN: Traders in the Batu Sapi shophouse area are alarmed after a series of electricity meter and cable thefts, with thieves believed to be cutting cables to extract copper for resale.
Karamunting Assemblyman Alex TK Wong visited the area after receiving complaints from shop owners and helped them lodge police reports.
“Several traders have reported repeated cable thefts in this area. I visited the site to understand the situation and assist the affected shop owners in making police reports,” he said.
According to traders, cables connected to electricity meters outside their shops were cut and stolen about three days ago. Despite a police report being lodged, suspects allegedly returned on Monday night and broke into a shop, stealing electrical components and related items.
Similar incidents have occurred at several wooden shophouses in the area over the past few weeks, causing financial losses and disruptions to electricity supply.
“These thefts are not just property damage. Cutting live electrical cables is extremely dangerous and can put lives at risk,” Wong said, warning that cable and meter thefts could lead to electric shocks, short circuits, and even fires.
“This is a serious safety issue. A single spark or short circuit can easily trigger a fire, especially in areas built largely of wood,” he added.
Wong urged the police to increase night patrols and enforcement to deter further incidents.
He also called on relevant agencies to review the security of electricity meters and wiring, including installing additional protective measures.
He advised traders to lodge police reports immediately if affected and to share information about suspicious activity.
Wong said he would continue monitoring the situation and assisting traders in raising the issue with authorities, hoping the repeated thefts could soon be brought under control to restore safety and order in the commercial area.
