KUCHING, Jan 17: The Sibu Sessions Court recently reached a decision in favour of Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO) on a meter tampering case against a company that runs a sawmill business in Bintangor, Sarikei.
According to a press release, in a judgement delivered on Dec 29, 2017, the Court ordered the company to pay SESCO, Sarawak Energy’s retail and operations arm, the sum of RM528,211.77. This is the estimated loss of revenue incurred by SESCO as a result of the tampered meter together with interest and legal costs.
The company’s application for an injunction to prevent SESCO from disconnecting electricity supply to their premises due to the unpaid arrears bill was also dismissed by the Sessions Court.
Tampering was detected on the meter installed at the company’s premises in October 2012. Detailed investigation revealed that the internal component of the meter was modified to prevent it from registering the actual electricity consumption of the sawmill, resulting in unrealistically low electricity usage readings for a fully operating sawmilling business.
As the company is on SESCO’s list of repeat offenders, the monthly electricity consumption of the business was also being closely monitored.
“Stealing electricity is not only illegal, it is also a dangerous crime as it endangers lives and could also cause damage to electrical appliances. SESCO will continue to actively carry out meter inspections and investigations throughout the state by working closely with the authorities, relevant agencies and members of the public.
“Offenders will be charged under Section 33 (5) of the Electricity Ordinance which carries a penalty of RM100,000.00 and/or five years’ imprisonment,” SESCO said in the statement.
SESCO’s on-going efforts to curb power theft have recorded significant success and the company extended its appreciation to members of the public for their assistance in providing information on such cases.
Those with information on power theft are advised to contact SESCO’s power theft hotline at 082-443535 or email customercare@sarawakenergy.com.my. All information will be kept strictly confidential. — DayakDaily
