Stealing by using remote control: FIA busts electricity theft ring

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has dismantled an electricity theft ring utilising sophisticated technology to manipulate electricity meters in industrial settings.

The gang employed remote control devices to disrupt the connection between electricity meters and power sources. Two individuals involved in the scheme were apprehended, and remote control devices were recovered from their possession.

Acting on intelligence, the FIA formed a joint team comprising the Anti-Corruption Cell and the Anti-Electricity and Gas Theft Unit to conduct operations at the Plaster of Paris Industry in Bhamra, located on the outskirts of Rawalpindi. Two suspects, identified as Rafique and Mohammad Hussain, were arrested and transferred to the PIA investigation cell for further proceedings.

The crackdown on the suspects was initiated based on confidential information. The FIA asserted that the suspects were manipulating meters with remote control devices, causing substantial financial losses to the national exchequer through electricity theft.

Investigators seized remote control devices, meters, and other equipment used in electricity theft. The arrests were facilitated by information obtained through more than 50 electronic devices involved in electricity theft. The FIA revealed that an organised syndicate was providing illicit services to various industries on the outskirts of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Efforts are underway to apprehend other suspects involved in the criminal enterprise.