LESCO intensifies anti-theft drive, uncovers large-scale illegal power use in Lahore

The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has uncovered large-scale electricity theft involving millions of rupees during coordinated raids in its Eastern and South circles, carried out with the assistance of Rangers and police.

Officials said the operations targeted areas where electricity was being consumed through direct illegal connections, resulting in significant financial losses to the utility and the national exchequer.

In the South Circle, a joint team led by Superintending Engineer Muhammad Hussain, alongside XEN Amjad Hussain Nagra and SDO Muhammad Waheed, conducted a raid at Chaudhry Shadi Hall in Nishtar Colony. The inspection revealed electricity theft through direct connections at the premises.

During the operation, authorities seized a 100kVA transformer, cables, and three meters, while legal action was initiated against the consumer involved. Officials added that the accused was also charged for the consumption of 170,000 units of electricity, with preliminary estimates placing losses at over Rs12 million.

In a separate action in the Eastern Circle, a team led by Superintending Engineer Umar Bilal raided Saggian Wasao village in the Mahmood Booti subdivision, where widespread illegal connections were detected across the locality.

Authorities also identified outstanding dues of around Rs12.2 million against consumers in the area. Following repeated warnings and continued non-payment, LESCO teams disconnected supply and removed two 200kVA transformers from the village.

LESCO officials said enforcement operations were conducted with law enforcement support to ensure compliance in high-theft areas. They added that crackdowns on electricity theft will continue without exception to protect system integrity and reduce losses.