Police Bust 'Dika Bayu' Gang for Telecommunications Substation Cable Theft

Police have cracked the 'Dika Bayu' gang, believed to be responsible for numerous thefts of telecommunications substation cables in various districts. The gang, comprising seven men in their 20s, was arrested in Kualalumpur and Sungai Petani since July 10. The suspects, all locals, used a modus operandi involving Google Map surveys, disguise as maintenance personnel, and rented cars to carry out the thefts.

Key Takeaways:

• The 'Dika Bayu' gang is believed to be responsible for 22 cases of theft of telecommunications substation cables in various districts since last January, resulting in estimated losses of RM145,000.
• The gang operated in Pendang, Sik, Yan, Alor Setar, Sungai Petani, and Penaga districts in Penang.
• The suspects used Google Map surveys to plan their thefts and wore safety vests and helmets as disguise to distract the public.
• All arrested suspects had past records related to theft and drugs, and tested positive for amphetamine and methamphetamine in urine screening.
• The gang's leader is Supt Rodzi Hassan, Pendang police chief, who stated that their main aim was to feed their drug habits.

Statistics:

• Estimated losses: RM145,000
• Number of cases: 22
• Districts affected: Pendang, Sik, Yan, Alor Setar, Sungai Petani, and Penaga
• Number of suspects arrested: 7
• Suspects' average age: 20s
• Suspects' past records: all had records related to theft and drugs
• Number of remanded suspects: 7
• Remand period: until July 19
• Law cited: Section 379 of the Penal Code

Sources:

• Bernama Newsletter, Kualalumpur.