In a significant move to curb electricity theft, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has unearthed a major power theft operation involving a tampered industrial connection in the Mahmood Booti area.
The operation, conducted under the direct supervision of LESCO Chief Executive Engineer Ramzan Butt, exposed sophisticated manipulation of the Maximum Demand Indicator (MDI) system, resulting in millions of rupees in financial losses to the national grid.
Key Investigation Findings
The LESCO DISCOS Support Unit, tasked with identifying irregularities in industrial power consumption, had flagged an industrial meter as suspicious during routine inspections. Upon deeper inspection, the team discovered that the suspects had bypassed the MDI mechanism—a critical component used to monitor peak electricity consumption—allowing them to run heavy machinery while reflecting significantly reduced usage on the official meter.
Transformer and Tampering Equipment Seized
Following the discovery, LESCO’s field teams, accompanied by security personnel, confiscated the on-site transformer, two electricity meters, and various tools used in the tampering process. The forensic analysis of the equipment confirmed deliberate manipulation aimed at avoiding billing for actual usage.
“This wasn’t just small-scale theft. This was a calculated, large-scale operation meant to bleed the system,” said a senior LESCO official on condition of anonymity. “Industrial units involved in this kind of theft are a major threat to the country’s energy stability.”
A tampered industrial electricity meter with exposed wiring shows signs of sophisticated manipulation.
Repeat Offender Arrested by Elite Force
Officials process legal documents related to the electricity theft case.
The investigation led to the arrest of a suspect identified as Tahir Mahmood, a resident of the same area. According to police records, Tahir is already facing two electricity theft-related FIRs filed in previous years under the jurisdiction of the Mahmood Booti sub-division.
He was apprehended by the Elite Force, acting on LESCO’s request for immediate action due to the suspect’s repeat violations and the potential for tampering with evidence.
Legal Action and Detection Billing Underway
A formal case has been lodged at the relevant police station, and LESCO has initiated detection billing procedures to recover the estimated financial loss caused by the theft. Detection billing is used to charge offenders based on estimated usage during the period of unauthorized consumption.
“No one is above the law. Whether residential or industrial, any illegal use of electricity will be met with strict legal consequences,” said Engineer Ramzan Butt, emphasizing LESCO’s zero-tolerance policy on theft. “We are not just pursuing recovery; we are pushing for prosecution.”
LESCO’s Broader Anti-Theft Campaign
This incident is part of a wider anti-theft campaign launched by LESCO across Lahore and adjoining regions. Over the past few months, several commercial and industrial users have been penalized or arrested for stealing electricity through meter tampering, illegal hooks (kundas), and underground connections.
The crackdown is in line with the government’s push to reduce line losses, improve revenue recovery, and stabilize the power sector, which continues to face financial strain due to widespread electricity theft and unpaid bills.
Operation Timeline
Initial Detection
DISCOS Support Unit flagged suspicious meter readings during routine analysis
Technical Investigation
Field team confirmed MDI system tampering on industrial connection
Site Inspection & Evidence Collection
Transformer and tampered meters were confiscated from the location
Suspect Identification
Tahir Mahmood identified as primary suspect with previous theft records
Apprehension & Case Filing
Elite Force arrested suspect; formal case lodged with police
Public Encouraged to Report Theft
LESCO has urged the public to report suspicious electricity usage or meter tampering through their helpline or regional offices. Informants are assured of confidentiality and, in some cases, may be rewarded for actionable leads.
“Electricity theft doesn’t just affect the company—it hurts every honest consumer who ends up bearing the cost. We’re asking citizens to become part of the solution,” a LESCO spokesperson added.
Key Takeaways
Sophisticated Theft: Industrial-scale electricity theft through MDI system manipulation led to millions in losses.
Repeat Offender: Suspect Tahir Mahmood had previous electricity theft cases registered against him.
Equipment Seizure: Transformer, meters, and tampering tools confiscated as evidence.
Detection Billing: LESCO initiating procedures to recover estimated losses from unauthorized consumption.
Public Involvement: Citizens encouraged to report suspicious activity with confidentiality assured.
