Police: 22 theft cases reported at Terengganu ECRL sites this year, nearly RM300,000 in losses

KUALA TERENGGANU, June 25 — Terengganu police have recorded 22 theft-related incidents, including cable thefts, at East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) construction sites across the state from January 1 to May 31 this year, with estimated losses reaching nearly RM300,000.

State police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin said 13 investigation papers were opened — five in Besut, four in Marang, two in Setiu, and one each in Kemaman and Dungun.

“Of these cases, five have been charged in court under Sections 414 and 379/511 of the Penal Code. Another five were marked as no further action (NFA) due to insufficient evidence, while the remaining three are still under investigation,” he told Bernama today.

He noted that the number of cases had decreased compared to the same period last year, when 35 reports were filed, resulting in losses nearing RM2 million.

During that period, 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 classified as NFA, and 10 remain under investigation.

Mohd Khairi urged ECRL site operators to enhance security measures, especially to deter cable theft. He recommended the installation of perimeter fencing, CCTV surveillance, adequate night lighting, proper inventory management, and sufficient on-site security personnel.

He also called on nearby residents to report any suspicious activity or unauthorised movement near project sites to authorities or site managers.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke had previously stressed the need for firm police action against cable thefts, warning that such incidents could hinder the progress of the ECRL project.

Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) had also voiced concerns about cable thefts detected at various locations along the ECRL alignment, which spans across Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and Selangor. — Bernama