BUKIT MERTAJAM, Aug 28 — Nine men were detained for allegedly attempting to steal a Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) transformer, worth RM70,000, at the main sub-station of the Perai Industrial Area near here yesterday.

Penang Criminal Investigation Department head SAC Mazlan Kesah said the attempt by the suspects was spotted by TNB auxiliary policemen who were patrolling the area at about 10.15pm.

"The auxiliary policemen went to inspect and saw nine men, all wearing a vest with the TNB logo, and following a check with the TNB management, they were informed that there was no instruction for the transformer to be brought out.

"The nine suspects were bringing out the transformer using a trailer when they were caught," he said when contacted today.

He said the suspects, aged between 30 and 42, were then handed over to the police.

They are in remand for six days to assist police investigation, he added. — Bernama