Lahore: DIG Operations Punjab, Waqas Nazir, chaired a critical video link meeting to bolster efforts against electricity theft, a rampant issue costing the national exchequer significant losses. The session saw participation from Punjab Police, Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), focusing on enhancing the crackdown and improving coordination among the agencies.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab announcement issued on 12 August 2024, the meeting reviewed progress made since the last session and set more stringent targets for apprehending offenders. DIG Nazir mandated swift action against major culprits in Lahore and surrounding areas, underscoring the urgency of registering FIRs and enhancing conviction rates in electricity theft cases to 85%.

The directives issued by DIG Nazir included immediate legal actions against proclaimed offenders and closer data collaboration with LESCO to rectify any discrepancies in records. He also highlighted the necessity of addressing internal corruption within LESCO, instructing that complaints against any employees aiding theft be forwarded to the FIA for further investigation. The meeting concluded with a series of briefings and proposals from representatives of the police, LESCO, and FIA, aiming to strengthen the ongoing operations and ensure more effective enforcement and compliance.