Experts: Cut off market for stolen cables to cripple syndicates
KUALA LUMPUR: Shutting down the market for stolen cables by zeroing in on unscrupulous scrapyard operators could cripple cable theft syndicates disrupting critical infrastructure nationwide.
Malaysia must cut off sales of stolen cables to cripple syndicates behind the theft of critical infrastructure, according to experts. Senior lawyer Kitson Foong explained that enforcement should focus on scrapyard operators who knowingly buy stolen cables, rather than solely targeting cable thieves. Every stolen metre of cable has a buyer, and cutting off that market would leave thieves with nowhere to sell their illegally acquired materials.
Malaysia already has laws in place, but enforcement is lacking, as offenders often receive minimal sentences. Prosecutors should consider bringing stronger charges, such as theft under Section 379 of the Penal Code, which carries up to seven years in jail, for cases involving telecommunications infrastructure. Additionally, scrap dealers should face stricter penalties, including losing their license under the Second-hand Dealers Act.
A specific offence for interfering with critical infrastructure should be established, carrying mandatory imprisonment and forfeiture of vehicles and criminal proceeds. This approach would target organized syndicates rather than individual offenders. Cable theft is more than just a theft of copper; it is an act of sabotage that disrupts train signaling, power supplies, and public safety.
While harsher penalties may deter some offenders, the primary solution lies in disrupting the entire criminal supply chain, from stealers to buyers and scrap dealers.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
