BAU – Police in Bau are investigating an attempted theft involving a transformer belonging to Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) at a SACOFA tower site in Tembawang, along the Jalan Bau-Lundu route.
The incident was reported to the Bau District Police on 20 September 2026 at about 1.38pm. Police said the case is being investigated under Section 379/511 of the Penal Code, relating to theft and an attempt to commit an offence.
Initial investigations indicate that the attempted theft may have taken place on the evening of 19 September, at about 7pm. The incident came to light after SACOFA notified SEB of a disruption to the power supply at the site.
An inspection of the area subsequently found signs that someone had attempted to remove the transformer positioned near the telecommunications tower. The equipment was damaged during the incident, with the transformer bushing found broken.
Police believe the damage may have occurred when the transformer was pulled using a rope. The estimated loss from the damage is about RM30,000, according to the Bau District Police.
Investigators are examining CCTV footage obtained from the site as part of efforts to establish what happened and identify those involved. A preliminary review reportedly showed a grey sedan entering the area at around 5.58pm on 19 September.
The footage also showed a man outside the fenced section of the site. Police said the individual is believed to be connected to the attempted theft, although investigations are still under way and no arrest has been made.
The CCTV material from SACOFA has been secured by police to assist with the investigation and efforts to trace the person believed to be involved.
Investigators are expected to examine the available evidence and establish the circumstances surrounding the attempted removal of the transformer.
The case highlights the potential impact of damage to infrastructure used to support electricity and telecommunications services.
In this instance, the suspected attempt to remove the transformer was followed by damage to the equipment and a reported disruption to the site’s power supply.
Bau District Police Chief Superintendent Mohd Haide A. Rahman said police were treating incidents involving public utility facilities seriously and would take action against those found to be responsible.
Police are appealing to members of the public who may have information about the incident to assist with the investigation. Information can be channelled to the Bau District Police Headquarters (IPD Bau).
The investigation remains ongoing, and police have not announced any arrests in connection with the case as of 20 September.
