ISLAMABAD: A senior officer of Lahore Electric Supply Company has been suspended after bribery allegations linked to transformer repairs prompted a broader probe into the utility’s operations. Authorities confirmed on Monday that Executive Engineer Ahmad Faraz faced suspension on charges of negligence, according to 24NewsHD.
The action followed the earlier suspension of three officials from LESCO’s Rural Pattoki division after residents reported misconduct. The controversy surfaced after Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif raised concerns on X, alleging that LESCO staff accepted Rs80,000 to repair a damaged electricity transformer.
The complaint came from Dholan Chak 27 near Pattoki, where one of the minister’s domestic employees lives. Asif stated that workers repaired the burnt transformer after receiving money and issued no receipt.
Federal Power Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari said authorities had already taken strict action against officials involved in the alleged bribery. He thanked Asif for highlighting the issue publicly and said the government prioritised accountability and transparency across power utilities.
Leghari said questions raised from within the cabinet strengthen governance and improve performance. His statement followed a decision by the LESCO Board to order a high-level inquiry into the allegations.
The board warned of strict action if investigators find any official or member of management involved in corruption or misconduct. It described the alleged demand for money, despite ministerial intervention, as evidence of systemic inefficiencies.
LESCO said investigators would question all officials linked to the case, including the chief executive officer. The board said disciplinary action would follow if wrongdoing is proven.
The case has renewed debate over service standards and accountability within Pakistan’s power distribution companies, as authorities pledged a comprehensive and transparent investigation. Officials promised timely findings and disclosure.
https://www.youtube.com/@thetruthinternational
