Lahore: In response to a directive from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab Police has stepped up its efforts to combat electricity theft across the province. The intensified crackdown is led by Inspector General of Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, who has called for actions against electricity theft to be conducted without discrimination, emphasizing the importance of timely case registration and strict action plans in collaboration with relevant companies.

According to Punjab Police, Dr. Usman Anwar has also directed law enforcement to capture as many proclaimed offenders as possible, enhance recovery rates, and uphold a zero-tolerance policy against individuals causing financial losses to the national treasury. This year, the police have arrested 47,167 individuals for electricity theft, registered 82,049 cases, and achieved 5,823 convictions across Punjab. In Lahore alone, 24,491 suspects have been detained, with 25,616 cases registered and 7,204 processed. Dr. Anwar has ordered that reports on efforts against electricity theft be regularly submitted to the Central Police Office.

The crackdown aims to deter theft and safeguard public resources by ensuring that those engaged in such illegal activities are held accountable. The ongoing actions reflect the provincial government’s commitment to addressing corruption and operational inefficiencies within its utilities sector.