Police have recovered 357 units of stolen cables worth approximately RM629,000 during a series of operations targeting cable theft syndicates in Kuala Lumpur between 2025 and May this year.
Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said cable theft remains a serious concern as it not only causes significant financial losses but also disrupts essential public services and economic activities.
According to him, a total of 205 reports involving cable theft were recorded throughout 2025, leading to the arrest of 171 suspects. The cases involved 103 telecommunications cable thefts, 28 railway cable thefts and 40 cases involving other types of cables.
The arrests resulted in the opening of 193 investigation papers, with 60 cases successfully brought before the courts. Authorities have continued to intensify enforcement efforts to curb the activities of syndicates targeting critical infrastructure.
For the period between January and May 2026, police received 71 reports and arrested 85 individuals. The cases comprised 50 telecommunications cable thefts, 17 railway cable thefts and 18 incidents involving other categories of cables.
During the same period, 67 investigation papers were opened, while 12 cases were successfully prosecuted in court. Authorities believe sustained enforcement is crucial to preventing further disruption to key services across the capital.
Fadil said cable theft can severely affect communication networks, business operations and government services, while also increasing repair, replacement and maintenance costs.
He warned that illegally cutting or removing cables carries serious risks, including electrocution and fire hazards. Members of the public are encouraged to provide information to the police to help combat such crimes and safeguard public safety.
The cases are being investigated under Section 379 of the Penal Code and Section 235 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
