Four picked up over RM148,500 cable thefts in Batu Niah

MIRI: Four suspects were arrested for theft of six cable cases across Batu Niah and surrounding areas, with reported losses estimated at RM148,500.

The arrests, involving two foreign nationals and two locals aged between 32 and 47, followed a series of investigations by police.

Miri district police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said police received six reports of cable theft between early September and late October, involving four locations in Suai and Batu Niah, and two separate locations in Sepupok.

The investigation led to the arrest of two foreign nationals, aged 37 and 47, at about 11.10pm on Oct 26 in Sepupok, Batu Niah.

Further intelligence gathered by investigators subsequently led police to two local men, aged 32 and 36, who were arrested at an unnumbered house in Kampung Rambai, Bekenu, at about 12.20pm on Oct 31.

All four suspects led police to a scrap metal premises in the Batu Niah town district, where officers seized three sacks containing copper cables believed to be linked to the thefts.

Investigations revealed that the group allegedly carried out reconnaissance before targeting cable installations in less frequented areas to avoid detection.

The stolen cables were then collected and sold to buyers.

Police also believe the suspects used a range of tools, including iron saws, long machetes, spanners, metal cutters and zinc cutters, to carry out the thefts.

A motorcycle was used for transportation.

With the arrests, police said all six cases involving the same modus operandi had been successfully resolved.

All four suspects remain in custody under a 14-day remand order until Nov 13 to assist with further investigations.

The cases are being investigated under Section 431A of the Penal Code, which carries a penalty of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both upon conviction.

Mohd Farhan said police viewed offences involving the theft and damage of public property seriously, warning that firm action would be taken against individuals involved in stealing, damaging or purchasing property obtained through criminal activities.

He said such offences could disrupt essential public infrastructure and inconvenience the wider community.

Police have also urged the public to refrain from purchasing or keeping goods suspected to have been obtained through criminal activities.

Anyone with information on cable theft or related criminal activities is urged to contact the police at 085-432533 or report the matter to the nearest police station.