Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar : A special squad from the state power distribution utility uncovered a widespread power theft racket on the outskirts of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and booked 19 consumers for illegally drawing electricity directly from low-tension lines, causing losses of over Rs 2.3 lakh.
The crackdown, carried out across seven villages in the district’s fringe areas, exposed theft of 13,560 units of electricity through hook connections, a practice Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) officials say not only drains public resources but also poses a serious threat to life and property. Based on a complaint lodged by an MSEDCL assistant engineer, all 19 consumers were booked under section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003, at the Chikalthana police station on Sept 7. The section 135 of the Electricity Act is a non-bailable offense and stipulated imprisonment and penalties,” he said.
Ardad warned that illegal hooking of electricity carries consequences far beyond financial losses. “Drawing illegal power is extremely dangerous to human life. Such practices can cause fatal electrocutions and fire hazards. Also, it is a serious crime.