A large-scale operation against electricity theft is continuing across Punjab, where law enforcement agencies have arrested thousands of suspects involved in illegal power connections.
According to official figures, Punjab Police has arrested 17,954 people this year in connection with electricity theft cases. Authorities said that 24,356 cases have been registered so far across the province.
Officials added that investigations and legal proceedings are moving forward, with challans completed in 15,698 cases. Courts have also taken action in several cases, where 2,448 accused individuals have been punished or fined for their involvement in electricity theft.
In Lahore, the crackdown has also shown significant results. Authorities reported that 5,757 cases were registered in the city, which led to 6,484 arrests during the ongoing campaign.
Senior police officials said that strict instructions have been issued to continue operations against electricity theft without any interruption. The Inspector General of Police Punjab, Abdul Karim, has directed all field units to intensify efforts and prioritize action against those involved in stealing electricity.
Authorities believe electricity theft causes major financial losses to the national economy and increases the burden on paying consumers. They say the ongoing crackdown is aimed at reducing these losses and ensuring fair distribution of electricity.
Police teams across districts have been instructed to work closely with electricity distribution companies to identify illegal connections and take immediate legal action. Surveillance and inspection drives are also being conducted regularly.
Officials have reaffirmed that the campaign will continue until strict control is achieved over electricity theft. They added that no leniency will be shown to individuals involved in damaging the power system or causing financial harm to the state.
