Kuantan: A total of 32 cases of theft involving the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project connecting cables and other components have been documented from June to October 10, resulting in losses of more than RM3 million.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shi Liang Hui, the security director for China Communications Construction (ECRL) Sdn Bhd (CCCECRL) Section 13, stated that Pahang experienced the highest number of incidents with 24 cases, followed by Terengganu with seven cases and Kelantan with one case. The targeted items in these thefts included overhead and ground cables as well as transformer boxes, potentially delaying the completion of the ECRL project.

Shi informed reporters during an inspection of the incident site in Kampung Luit that measures have been taken to address the issue. CCCECRL has engaged with the police and hired two security companies to oversee the project site to prevent future occurrences of theft. Additionally, 66 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been installed since September to deter theft and aid in police investigations.

Shi also urged the public to report any suspicious cable theft activities to the authorities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the security of the national project, which is intended to benefit the people.