Organized water meter theft hits Terengganu, 134 cases reported

Syarikat Air Terengganu Sdn. Bhd. (SATU) is investigating a series of 134 water meter thefts that have occurred in Kuala Terengganu and Marang since last month. The company suspects the incidents are part of an organized operation.

Abdul Karim Endut, SATU's Chief Executive Officer, stated that the thieves are targeting both old and newly installed meters, some of which had not yet been activated. The pattern suggests a coordinated effort, with thieves often striking entire housing neighborhoods within a single night. This organized approach distinguishes the incidents from isolated acts of theft.

"Initially, we thought these incidents might be carried out by specific individuals, like iron theft cases, but when we observed the pattern, it appeared to be organized and carried out by groups," Abdul Karim said. SATU has filed police reports and plans to meet with the Terengganu Police Chief to discuss prevention strategies.

The thefts, which began in July, have caused significant water wastage as thieves often fail to shut off the water supply after removing the meters. This leads to continuous water flow until residents notice the loss. Despite the relatively low cost of a meter and its installation (under RM200), the actual losses are substantial due to the resulting water wastage and the need for replacement.

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Initially, we thought these incidents might be carried out by specific individuals, like iron theft cases, but when we observed the pattern, it appeared to be organized and carried out by groups.