BINTULU, March 25: The Maskat Booster Pump Station in Bintulu which is currently under construction, has been broken into and vandalised on Wednesday (March 22).
According to a media release by Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak (MUT) issued today, the burglary is the fourth case recorded by the Bintulu Divisional Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB Bintulu) which has affected the progress of the construction of the project.
Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (Utility) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi during his official work visit to the project site was there to observe the condition and impact of the theft and vandalism on the project.
“This incident has resulted in a large loss to the JBALB, which is estimated at around RM293,000 for repair works and replacement of destroyed and lost equipment.
“The JBALB assets provided are intended to facilitate the users to enjoy a good and consistent water supply system, but because of these irresponsible incidents, it causes hardship and misery to other users.
“Three police reports have been made by the JBALB related to previous incidents of vandalism and theft,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry and JBALB takes the issue of theft and vandalism on assets belonging to JBALB very seriously and strict action will be taken against any party involved and will be brought to justice.
If found guilty, the individual or party involved can be punished under Section 447 of the Penal Code, which carries a prison sentence of up to six months, or with a fine of up to RM3,000, or both.
Members of the public who witness any suspicious activity at the water treatment plant, booster pump station or any assets belonging to JBALB can contact the JBALB Call Center at 082-262211 or the police. — DayakDaily
