MIRI – Police in Miri have arrested three local men suspected of attempting to steal telecommunications cables near Tamu Muhibbah on 15 April 2026.
The arrests were made at 12.18am following a raid conducted by members of the Auxiliary Police and the Operational Intelligence Unit of the Criminal Investigation Division (BSJ) Miri IPD.
The suspects, aged between 26 and 47, were detained together with several items believed to have been used in the attempted theft.
The operation was launched after Malaysia Telekom reported a line interruption in the area, prompting police to patrol the site.
Inspections at the location led to the seizure of cables and equipment, including a chain lock, light unit, hacksaw, copper wire roll, fibre cable cutters, and cable sheet cutters.
All suspects are currently being held at the Miri Central Police Station lockup. They are being investigated under Sections 379 and 511 of the Penal Code, which cover attempted theft offences. Convictions under these provisions may result in imprisonment of up to two years, fines, or both.
Miri District Police Chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee bin Abdullah stressed that the Royal Malaysian Police takes cases involving theft of public property seriously.
He emphasised that strict legal action will be taken against individuals involved in stealing, damaging, or purchasing stolen public assets, as such crimes disrupt essential services for the community.
Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance in the investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the case investigator, SJN Paeng Anak Lasa, at 014-5750622 or 085-435081, or visit the nearest police station.
The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by police to safeguard public infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted services. Cable theft not only causes financial losses but also affects communication networks vital to residents and businesses in Miri.
