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KOTA KINABALU: The Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) has intensified enforcement against illegal electricity theft and sale activities, securing its fifth prosecution within a week as part of its continued efforts to curb electricity-related offences across Sabah.

The latest prosecution followed an Integrated Enforcement Operation conducted from July 1 to 3 at several squatter settlements in Sandakan.

The operation, carried out in collaboration with Sabah Electricity (SE), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) and the Sabah State Water Department (JANS), targeted locations identified as being involved in illegal electricity connections and supply sales.

The areas involved were Kg Kagayan, Kg Pengiran Galpam, Kg Keluarga and Kg Konoha.

During proceedings at the Sandakan Sessions Court before Judge Roslinda Razali, the accused, Laken Jiram, an undocumented immigrant from Kg Kagayan, was found guilty of offences under Sections 8(1)(b), 61(1), 61(3)(a) and 61(8) of the Electricity Supply Enactment 2024.

The court imposed a total fine of RM188,000. After failing to pay the fine, the accused was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment, with the sentences for all offences to run concurrently.

Upon completing his sentence, he will be handed over to the Immigration Department for further action, including deportation.

With the latest conviction, five individuals have now been successfully prosecuted following the integrated enforcement operation. The others are Zaini Mubin, Sumailah Cuba, Ahmad Safuan Baharuddin and Asis Cengkuru.

ECoS Chief Operating Officer Ir Ridwan Saham said the five successful prosecutions within a week reflected the effectiveness of strategic cooperation among enforcement agencies in tackling illegal electricity theft and sales.

“ECoS will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts throughout Sabah, and firm action will be taken against any individual or syndicate found involved in illegal electricity theft or sale activities,” he said.

He added that illegal electricity connections were not only criminal offences but also posed serious safety risks, including electrocution, fires and disruptions to electricity supply affecting other consumers.

ECoS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of Sabah’s electricity supply system through continuous enforcement and close cooperation with relevant agencies to safeguard public safety and ensure compliance with the law.