Firm ordered to pay Sesco RM334,040 for lost revenue

KUCHING: The Sibu Sessions Court recently reached a decision in favour of Syarikat Sesco Berhad ( Sesco) on a meter tampering case against a soft drink and water company situated in Jalan Teku Barat, Sibu.

In the judgement delivered on June 16, the court ordered the company to pay Sesco, Sarawak Energy's retail and operations arm, RM334,040.24.

This is the estimated loss of revenue incurred by Sesco as a result of the tampered meter, together with interest and legal costs.

The meter installed at the company's premises was detected to have irregularities before it was replaced in July, 2012. Before the replacement, the average monthly electricity consumption of the premises was unrealistically low for a fully operating business of manufacturing, producing and selling soft drinks and drinking water.

Other than the consumption pattern, physical evidence of tampering was clear.

Previously, the company's application for an injunction to prevent Sesco from disconnecting electricity supply to their premises was also dismissed by the High Court and Court of Appeal, with cost.

As the company was on Sesco's list of repeat offenders, the monthly electricity consumption of the business was being closely monitored.

The public is reminded that stealing electricity is not only illegal, it is also a dangerous crime as it endangers lives and could also cause damage to electrical appliances. Sesco will continue to actively carry out meter inspections and investigations throughout the state by working closely with the authorities, relevant agencies and members of the public.

Offenders can be charged under Section 33 ( 5) of the Electricity Ordinance which carries a penalty of RM100,000 and/or five years' jail.

Sesco's ongoing efforts to curb power theft have recorded significant success and the company extends its appreciation to members of the public for their assistance in providing information on such cases.