Gas Theft Crackdown: Three Arrested, 7,870 Illegal Connections Removed

KARACHI: Gas theft has become a significant issue in Pakistan, particularly affecting the operations of the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC). This illegal activity not only leads to financial losses for the company but also contributes to the broader problem of Unaccounted-for-Gas (UFG), which is a major concern for energy management in the country. In a recent crackdown, SSGC's Security Services and Counter Gas Theft Operations (SS & CGTO) team has made substantial progress in combating this menace.

During a series of coordinated raids across various commercial units, the SS & CGTO team, in collaboration with SSGC Police and the Recovery Department, apprehended three individuals for their involvement in gas theft. The raids targeted a sweet shop, a dupatta dyeing factory, and a marriage lawn located in New Karachi, Korangi, and Shah Faisal Colony, respectively. These establishments were found to be illegally using gas directly from service lines, with a total connecting load of 807 cubic feet per hour (cft/hr). The arrested individuals, identified as Omer Hayat, Arsalan Mirza, and Altaf Bhatti, now face legal action as FIRs have been filed against them.

In addition to these arrests, SSGC's theft control teams have dismantled approximately 7,870 illegal domestic connections in various cities and towns. A significant operation in Gadap Town resulted in the removal of around 7,000 illegal connections. Other areas in Karachi, including Malir, Lyari, Essa Nagri, Surjani Town, DHA, Mehmoodabad, Scheme-33, and PIB Colony, saw the removal of about 610 illegal connections. These actions are crucial as they help recover losses incurred due to unauthorized gas usage.

Furthermore, SSGC's teams have been active in regions such as Nawabshah, Dadu, and Larkana, where they removed 20 illegal domestic connections and confiscated equipment used for gas theft, including clamps and rubber pipes. In Hyderabad, joint operations in Qasimabad led to the dismantling of illegal connections in two laundries, with FIRs being lodged against the offenders.

The crackdown on gas theft has also extended to upper and lower Balochistan, where 240 illegal connections were removed in Quetta, Kalat, and Dera Allayar. The discovery of more than five fake meters further highlights the extent of this issue. The theft control teams are committed to raising theft claims to recover losses and ensure accountability.

As SSGC continues its rigorous efforts to combat gas theft, it is essential for residents to understand the implications of such illegal activities. Gas theft not only affects the company’s revenue but also disrupts the supply chain, leading to shortages and increased costs for consumers. The ongoing operations and strict monitoring of gas theft-prone areas are vital steps in safeguarding the integrity of gas distribution in Pakistan.

The fight against gas theft is a collective responsibility that requires the cooperation of both the authorities and the public. By raising awareness and reporting suspicious activities, citizens can play a crucial role in curbing this illegal practice. SSGC remains dedicated to its mission of ensuring fair and equitable gas distribution, and with continued vigilance, it aims to eliminate the scourge of gas theft from the community.