A TOTAL of 22 theft-related incidents, including cable thefts, have been reported at East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) construction sites across Terengganu between 1 January and 31 May this year, resulting in estimated losses of RM300,000, police confirmed.
State Police Chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin said 13 investigation papers had been opened, with five cases in Besut, four in Marang, two in Setiu, and one each in Kemaman and Dungun.
“Of these, five cases have been charged in court under Sections 414 and 379/511 of the Penal Code. Another five were classified as no further action (NFA) due to insufficient evidence, while three cases are still under investigation,” he told Bernama on Tuesday.
He noted a marked decrease in thefts compared to the same period last year, when 35 reports were lodged involving losses nearing RM2 million.
“In 2024, 23 investigation papers were opened—eight in Marang, five each in Kuala Terengganu and Besut, three in Setiu, and two in Dungun. Of those, eight cases were brought to court, five were given NFA status, and ten remain under investigation,” he added.
Mohd Khairi urged ECRL project operators to enhance site security, particularly to prevent further cable thefts.
“We recommend installing perimeter fencing, CCTV cameras, and adequate lighting—especially at night—alongside deploying sufficient security personnel and maintaining an organised inventory system for materials and equipment,” he said.
He also appealed to surrounding communities to report any suspicious activities or unauthorised movements near project sites to authorities or site managers.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke had earlier called for stern action by the police against cable thefts along the ECRL route, warning that such incidents could hinder project progress.
Malaysia Rail Link (MRL), the company overseeing the rail line, had also expressed concern about thefts along various parts of the ECRL alignment, which stretches through Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and Selangor. - June 25, 2025
