IESCO Fines Rs503m in Crackdown on Power Theft

Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has intensified its crackdown on electricity theft, apprehending 5,929 power pilferers and imposing fines of over Rs503 million since the launch of a special anti-theft campaign in 2023. Nearly 2,950 offenders have been arrested with police assistance.

IESCO Chief Executive Engineer Khalid Mahmood said the campaign, conducted in line with directives from the federal government and the Ministry of Energy’s Power Division, has seen operations, metering, and surveillance teams check nearly 2.8 million electricity meters across all consumer categories. He stressed that there is “no space for power pilfers” in IESCO’s jurisdiction and vowed continued strict enforcement.

According to the company, offenders were caught using various illegal methods to steal electricity. Penalties have been levied amounting to Rs503.5 million, while thousands of cases were referred to police for legal action. Mahmood commended the efforts of IESCO officers and staff, urging them to maintain momentum “without any kind of pressure” and with greater dedication.

The IESCO chief also appealed to consumers to support the campaign by reporting suspected theft incidents. Complaints can be lodged with local Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs), through the power helpline 118, or via the Central Complaint Management Cell (CCMC) at 051-9252933. He reminded citizens that electricity theft is both a sin and a national crime, calling it a major obstacle to Pakistan’s economic progress and energy security.

The anti-theft campaign is part of a wider national effort to curb electricity losses, which have long plagued Pakistan’s power sector and contributed to circular debt. Analysts note that reducing technical and commercial losses is vital for improving the financial health of distribution companies and ensuring reliable electricity supply.

IESCO, which supplies power to Islamabad and adjoining areas, has been among the leading utilities in implementing government directives on energy sector reforms. Its ongoing enforcement drive reflects a broader push to restore discipline in power distribution and encourage lawful electricity use.