330 Theft Cases Reported Across USF Telecom Network, Balochistan Tops List

A total of 330 theft cases have been reported across the Universal Service Fund (USF) network, highlighting significant financial losses to telecom infrastructure and raising concerns about the security of communication facilities in remote regions.

The details were presented before a subcommittee of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology during a recent meeting.

According to the document shared with lawmakers, multiple categories of theft were recorded across the network. These included 90 cases involving various forms of theft, 85 incidents related to the theft of Bill of Quantities (BOQ) material, 81 cases at dependent sites, and 42 incidents of fuel theft. Officials also reported that security concerns prevented access to 32 project locations.

Regional data showed that Balochistan recorded the highest number of theft incidents, with 229 cases reported. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded 69 cases, while Sindh reported 31 incidents. Punjab recorded only one theft case during the reporting period, according to the figures presented to lawmakers.

Committee members expressed concern over the rising number of thefts affecting telecom infrastructure. They called for stronger coordination with local administrations and law enforcement agencies. Officials were directed to register First Information Reports (FIRs) in areas where diesel and infrastructure thefts were taking place and to engage relevant authorities to ensure action against those responsible.

During the discussion, it was noted that legal action could also be initiated under Section 200 if FIRs were not registered. Lawmakers emphasized the need for improved security measures to protect telecom infrastructure, warning that continued thefts could disrupt connectivity and increase operational costs for network operators serving underserved areas.