Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has discovered a new electricity theft technique during a large enforcement operation in Lahore. The company said criminals are using advanced remote-control devices to manipulate electricity meters. This method allows illegal power usage without detection.
According to an official statement, the raid was conducted under the instructions of LESCO Chief Executive Engineer Muhammad Ramzan Butt. The operation targeted an industrial electricity connection in the Shahdara area. Officials uncovered a major case involving meter tampering through electronic remote systems.
During the raid, two suspects were arrested on the spot. They were allegedly controlling electricity meters remotely to steal power. This activity caused an estimated financial loss of around Rs6.5 million to the utility company. The discovery highlights how new electricity theft methods are becoming more advanced and harder to detect.
LESCO teams also recovered important equipment from the site. Authorities seized cables, electricity meters, and a transformer used in the illegal setup. The confiscated items are now part of the ongoing investigation.
The company praised the enforcement teams involved in the operation. Northern Circle SE Muhammad Muzammil, along with Jia Musa surveillance staff and M&T teams, were officially recognized for their performance. The LESCO leadership appreciated their efforts in exposing this new electricity theft network.
Officials stated that the crackdown against electricity theft is being strengthened across Lahore and surrounding regions. They confirmed that operations will continue without discrimination. The goal is to eliminate all forms of illegal power consumption.
In a related development, LESCO has also taken strict internal action against its own employees. Over the past six months, 101 employees were dismissed due to involvement in power theft cases. Some employees were arrested, while others were forcibly retired after allegations were proven.
The company emphasized that accountability will continue at every level. Both internal staff and external offenders are being monitored closely. Authorities believe that strict enforcement is necessary to reduce losses in the power sector.
The emergence of this new electricity theft method has raised concerns among officials. LESCO has pledged to introduce stronger monitoring systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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