PM Orders Inquiry Into LESCO For Overbilling and Corruption

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for an in-depth investigation into multiple issues surrounding the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO).

These include the reinstatement of 12 officers with alleged corruption histories, overbilling accusations, illegal FIA involvement, and other operational matters. The Prime Minister’s Office has demanded a comprehensive report within 10 days, according to sources.

A notification issued by the PM’s Office outlines the formation of a special committee comprising Shahid Khan (former federal secretary), the Power Division secretary, a member of LESCO’s Board of Directors (HR Committee), and a representative from the Intelligence Bureau.

The committee’s responsibilities include:

• Examining the reinstatement of allegedly corrupt officers and evaluating the justification for their return.
• Investigating illegal electrification in the Khayaban-e-Ameen housing scheme.
• Reviewing procurement irregularities involving Hitachi circuit breakers.
• Analyzing the financial and procedural breaches related to June 2024 overbilling cases.
• Scrutinizing the FIA’s role in mishandling LESCO-related cases.
• Assessing allegations of corruption against LESCO’s current CEO.

An official familiar with the reinstatement matter explained that these officers resumed their duties after prior investigations found no substantial evidence against them. The reinstatement process, the official argued, followed proper rules and approvals.