Harian Metro reported that the men, aged 18 to 48, were arrested separately and in stages after police received a report on trespassing and theft in the area.

Acting Baling police chief Ahmad Salimi Ali said the stolen items included 17 copper rods and 35 rolls of copper tape worth an estimated total of RM140,000.

“Following the arrests, we seized two four-wheel drive vehicles, 15 phones, 17 copper rods, four rolls of copper tape and 187 pieces of copper that had been cut up.

“The suspects have criminal records related to crime and drugs. One of them is wanted in a drug case and tested positive in an initial screening for methamphetamine use,” he said.

Salimi said the investigations also led to the arrest of an owner of used goods in Kulim believed to be involved in fencing stolen items. He had a record for nine criminal offences.

The case is being investigated under Sections 379 and 447 of the Penal Code for theft and criminal trespass, which provide for up to seven years’ imprisonment or a fine.