No buyers, no sellers: Cable theft trade must be wiped out at both ends

Ibrahim fields questions from reporters after the launch of the Smart Street Lighting Project in Kampung Nombor Satok on June 13, 2026. Photo credit: UKAS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 14: Cable theft and vandalism targeting public infrastructure must be tackled comprehensively by dismantling both supply and demand, including those who purchase stolen materials, says Deputy Minister of Utility (Sarawak Energy Berhad and PETROS) Datuk Ibrahim Baki.

He said the persistent demand for stolen cables continues to fuel such crimes despite ongoing enforcement efforts.

“If there are no buyers, there will be no sellers. That is why we need to look at the entire chain of this activity and not just arrest the individuals stealing the cables,” he said after the launch of the Smart Street Lighting Project in Kampung Nombor Satok yesterday (June 13), as reported by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).

Ibrahim stressed that enforcement should not focus solely on arresting thieves but must also target networks sustaining the illegal trade.

He urged police and relevant agencies to intensify patrols and enforcement in areas frequently targeted by cable theft, particularly public lighting and utility infrastructure.

He said among the affected locations was the Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge, adding that additional security measures, including security personnel and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems, will be deployed soon.

He added that the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) has received allocation to expand CCTV installations at strategic locations to strengthen urban security and protect public infrastructure.

Ibrahim warned that cable theft not only causes financial losses but also creates safety risks, as unlit or damaged areas increase the likelihood of accidents and crime.

He also commended Sarawak Energy Berhad for leveraging smart technologies, including drones and detection systems, to curb electricity theft and identify premises involved in illegal cryptocurrency mining, improving enforcement efficiency and reducing losses. — DayakDaily