KOTA KINABALU: The public should not connect power illegally due to safety concerns, says Sabah Electricity.

It said that illegal electricity connections are not only unlawful but also pose significant safety hazards.

Sabah Electricity chief operating officer Mohd Yusmanizam Mohd Yusof said hundreds of disconnection operations have been conducted in squatter areas, but illegal connections persist.

"Illegal power tapping could cause fires, short circuits and electrocution,” he said.

This warning followed the death of a 43-year-old man who was electrocuted while catching crabs at Jalan Lorong Kuala Neutron on Thursday night.

In the 10.45pm incident, the victim was reportedly struck by an electric shock during his activity.

Yusmanizam said a team of electricians went to the scene to investigate after receiving information about the incident at around 11.30pm.

He added, "Power supply in the area was shut off to make way for firemen and other agencies to carry out their work and to remove the victim from that place."

Sabah Electricity personnel later found illegal power connections at the supply box to the accident scene, which might have caused the electrocution.

Operations to remove the illegal connections were immediately conducted, and power was reconnected to the area at 12.58am, said Yusmanizam.

Those with information or complaints about electricity-related issues can contact the Sabah Electricity careline at 15444, 088-515000 or via WhatsApp at 019-852 5427.