Karachi, Pakistan — K-Electric (KE) has expressed strong condemnation following a violent incident where members of its field team were attacked during an anti-theft operation in Khamiso Goth, North Karachi. This assault occurred while the team worked to eliminate illegal electricity connections that threaten public safety and disrupt the power supply for lawful customers.
The operation turned chaotic when a mob confronted the KE staff, resulting in serious injuries to one employee and damage to equipment. The injured team member was promptly transported to a hospital for medical care. In response, KE has filed a First Information Report (FIR) and is collaborating with law enforcement to hold accountable those involved in the attack.
Electricity theft remains a significant issue in Khamiso Goth, with the affected feeder suffering losses of approximately 40%, translating to around 3.4 million units annually. Despite ongoing weekly drives aimed at removing illegal connections, these practices continue to resurface quickly. KE has underscored the need for enhanced support from local authorities to effectively address this persistent problem.
Imran Rana, a spokesperson for KE, highlighted the challenges faced by utility workers, stating, “Acts of violence against our teams jeopardize both their safety and the reliability of electricity for Karachi residents. Our employees operate in demanding environments, ensuring essential services for our customers.”
Attacks on utility personnel hinder vital operations, such as fault prevention and power restoration, that are critical for community safety. K-Electric has reiterated its commitment to combatting electricity theft and increasing recovery efforts, while also emphasizing the importance of community education regarding utility services. The company maintains that the safety of its employees is paramount and non-negotiable.
The ongoing struggle against illegal connections poses broader implications for urban management and energy distribution, as it not only affects KE’s operations but also the overall power infrastructure in the region. As KE navigates these obstacles, the call for improved collaboration with city administrators and law enforcement becomes increasingly urgent to dismantle these dangerous practices and protect both workers and residents.