Kota Kinabalu: The recent surge in cable theft, illegal electricity tapping and meter vandalism in Sabah underscores the critical need for stronger government action, according to National Consumer Foundation Sabah Chapter Chairman David Chan.
These crimes not only disrupt essential services but also pose significant safety risks to the public, he said.
David urged authorities to bolster surveillance and enforcement to combat the recurring problem of cable theft, advocating for stricter penalties to deter future incidents.
He also called on utility providers to enhance security measures around meters and electrical installations to prevent tampering.
David highlighted the vulnerability of meters located in public areas, such as commercial shop lot staircases, and urged Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) to improve surveillance and ensure fair processes for identifying responsible parties.
He stressed that consumers should not bear unfair penalties for damages they did not cause.
A further concern raised was the involvement of undocumented foreigners.
David questioned how ECoS could effectively prosecute individuals lacking proper identification and legal status, emphasising the need to address this loophole for fair and accountable enforcement.
David urged lawmakers to develop comprehensive solutions to protect consumers, businesses, and public infrastructure, advocating for a collaborative approach involving law enforcement, utility providers, and policymakers.
