ISLAMABAD: In a joint effort to address the nation’s power crisis and revitalize its economy, the government, in collaboration with military leadership, has launched a vigorous crackdown on electricity theft.
Recent reports from authorities reveal significant progress in reducing this illegal practice, with over 91 billion rupees collected from offenders nationwide and more than 69 thousand individuals apprehended.
From April 28 to May 5, authorities intensified operations in key cities including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, and Islamabad, leading to the recovery of 0.13 billion rupees from electricity thieves.
In regions like Peshawar, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Quetta, and recently annexed areas, a substantial amount of 0.272 billion rupees was also collected.
The efforts of concerned agencies resulted in the arrest of 21 electricity thieves from various parts of the country, demonstrating a strong commitment to eradicating this problem completely.
Authorities have pledged to continue these operations until electricity theft is eliminated nationwide, emphasizing unwavering resolve.
This commendable initiative represents a crucial step toward stabilizing the country’s energy sector and reflects the government’s dedication to fostering accountability and economic prosperity for all citizens.
Earlier, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad, unveiling a series of stringent measures aimed at tackling electricity and gas theft across Pakistan. Special teams have been established to conduct crackdown operations, with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) taking the lead in pursuing legal actions against those involved in these criminal activities.
During the meeting, Minister Naqvi stressed the urgent need for swift and decisive action against perpetrators of electricity and gas theft. He also received a detailed report from the FIA regarding the Greece boat accident, directing the agency to investigate thoroughly and ensure accountability for those responsible.
In addition to addressing electricity and gas theft, Minister Naqvi emphasized the importance of combating human trafficking and cracking down on hundi/hawala operations. He urged authorities to tighten enforcement efforts in these areas to prevent further illicit activities.
Regarding administrative matters, Minister Naqvi discussed the pending promotions of FIA officials. He underscored the necessity of expediting the resolution of these cases, urging for their disposal within one month to ensure timely justice.
Minister Naqvi highlighted the economic significance of tackling hundi/hawala operations, noting that it would contribute to the stability and appreciation of the Pakistani rupee. By curbing illicit financial activities, the government aims to bolster economic integrity and promote transparency in financial transactions.
I am an experienced writer, analyst, and author. My exposure in English journalism spans more than 28 years. In the past, I have been working with daily The Muslim (Lahore Bureau), daily Business Recorder (Lahore/Islamabad Bureaus), Daily Times, Islamabad, daily The Nation (Lahore and Karachi). With daily The Nation, I have served as Resident Editor, Karachi. Since 2009, I have been working as a Freelance Writer/Editor for American organizations.
