LAHORE: The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) detected 1,428 incidents of electricity theft across its operational circles in the month of October 2026, with only 545 cases registered and five suspects arrested, highlighting the continuing challenge of curbing power pilferage.
According to statistics released by the LESCO headquarters, the detected theft cases involved a total of 1,932,870 electricity units, valuing at Rs116.19 million. The utility also recovered Rs9.98 million through its enforcement operations during the month under review, authorities said. The detected cases included 1,418 domestic, one commercial, six agricultural and three industrial connections.
The company submitted applications for registration of 1,331 cases against individuals allegedly involved in electricity theft, however, 545 FIRs were registered during the month, while five suspects were arrested. Among LESCO’s operational circles, Eastern Lahore recorded the highest number of electricity theft incidents at 778. The company submitted 684 applications for registration of cases in the circle, resulting in 336 FIRs.
Other circles also reported significant incidents, including 237 in Okara, 123 in Central Lahore, 97 in Northern Lahore, 95 in Sheikhupura, 39 in Kasur, 38 in Nankana Sahib and 21 in Southern Lahore.
LESCO Chief Executive Officer Engr Ramzan Butt has directed the relevant departments of the company to further strengthen anti-theft operations and continue indiscriminate action against elements causing losses to national resources. He emphasised the need for more effective measures to eliminate electricity theft and protect the power distribution system from financial losses.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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