Jauteh said at least 500 personnel would be activated Statewide to monitor public safety during the Kaamatan festivity this month.
Kota Kinabalu: Sabah has recorded 58 cable thefts so far this year, with Kota Kinabalu topping the list with 21.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun said the cases were recorded from January to April.
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He said it was followed by Penampang (8), Kudat (7), Papar (6), Tuaran (4), Kota Marudu (3), two each in Beaufort, Keningau, Kota Belud and Sipitang, while Lahad Datu recorded one case.
Even the State’s Administrative Building, Menara Kinabalu, was affected while areas in Damai and Likas faced four-day blackouts early April.
Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Phoong Jin Zhe said at least 197 streetlights along Jalan Lintas malfunctioned during the period.
SESB CEO Mohd Yaakob Jaafar said other agencies like the Public Works Department, Telekom and City Hall fell victims to the copper thieves as well.
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In an earlier statement, he said the problem always seemed to arise near festivities leading them to believe that many from the less fortunate group would resort to the crime as a means in making a quick buck.
Meanwhile, Jauteh said at least 500 personnel would be activated Statewide to monitor public safety during the Kaamatan festivity this month.
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He said as usual the police expect large crowds at the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association grounds in Penampang.
“We want to ensure smooth travel and have thus identified alternative routes to redirect traffic during the festival’s peak.
“Don’t drink and drive. Many end up in the drain or worse doing this. Use an e-hailing service and be safe, enjoy responsibly,” he said.
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