In a significant operation in Rajaun, Banka district, the electricity department has arrested five individuals on charges of electricity theft. These accused were reportedly bypassing smart meters to illegally consume electricity. The electricity department had been receiving continuous complaints about people tampering with or bypassing smart meters to steal power, leading to substantial revenue losses for the department.

According to available information, a special team from the electricity department conducted raids in various areas under the Rajaun police station jurisdiction. During these raids, the team discovered that five consumers were cleverly bypassing the smart meters installed in their homes and drawing electricity directly from the main connection. First Information Reports (FIRs) have been lodged against all of them at the Rajaun police station under relevant sections of the Electricity Act. The arrested individuals include domestic consumers and those operating small commercial establishments.

Officials from the electricity department stated that bypassing smart meters is a serious offense. It not only causes financial loss to the electricity department but also adversely affects the power supply system of the entire region. Officials warned that such campaigns against electricity theft would continue in the future, and strict legal action would be taken against offenders. They appealed to the general public not to engage in electricity theft and to report any instances of power theft to the department immediately. The identity of informants will be kept confidential by the department.