Nagpur: The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) conducted a surprise early-morning raid in Belona village, Narkhed taluka, and uncovered multiple cases of electricity theft. The crackdown, carried out at 6 am on Tuesday, aimed to strengthen reliable power supply for genuine consumers.

During the operation, MSEDCL teams inspected 50 suspicious electricity connections. Of these, six consumers were caught red-handed stealing power. The offenders have been booked under Section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003 (Amended 2007), and irregularities amounting to ₹35,000 have been registered.

Crackdown Led by Senior Officials

The operation was conducted under the supervision of Executive Engineer Deepak Agav and led by Deputy Executive Engineer Pawan Nandardhane. Assistant Engineers Shubham Hedau, Nilesh Meshram, and Junior Engineers Rohit Meshram, Saurabh Naitam, and Varitesh Ramteke were part of the raiding team.

Power Theft Causes Voltage Fluctuations, Says MSEDCL

According to officials, electricity theft places undue stress on the distribution network, resulting in low voltage and technical faults for law-abiding consumers. MSEDCL emphasized that the drive is not only punitive but also aimed at ensuring that every household receives safe, legal, and uninterrupted electricity.

The company also stated that such surprise inspections will continue across rural regions to reduce power losses and increase transparency in electricity distribution.

MSEDCL Urges Citizens to Avoid Illegal Connections

MSEDCL has reminded consumers that power theft is both a criminal offence and a safety hazard. The utility urged residents to use only authorized connections to prevent accidents and help maintain stable electricity supply in their communities.