LAHAD DATU: More than 150 houses in two squatter colonies here were found to be stealing electricity supply during an integrated operation conducted by Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB), Monday.
SESB Senior General Manager (Asset Management) Ir. Idris Mohd Noor led the operation which was carried out together with the police, Water Department and Public Service Department.
He said the operation aimed to curb electricity theft, which needs to be eradicated, as it not only endangers the residents through incidents such as fires but also incurs losses to SESB.
“We also want to convey a clear message to the residents that illegal power supply connection is prohibited,” he said.
Idris said during the operation SESB seized more than 400km of wires used for illegal power supply connections.
He added that SESB suffered an estimated loss of RM800,000 a year due to such activities in the district.
“Hence, SESB plans to implement a prepaid card system to curb electricity theft. Through this system, residents in squatter areas can apply for electricity supply legally.
“The proposal is being finalised before it is implemented in selected squatter settlements and expanded to other areas later,” he said.
