ISLAMABAD: The caretaker federal government has ousted Muzaffar Abbasi, Chief Executive Officer of the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO), citing his poor performance in the nationwide crackdown against power pilferage.

Abbasi has been replaced by Bashir Ahmed, who was transferred from the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) just two days prior. The decision to appoint Ahmed as HESCO’s new chief was formalized through a letter issued by the power regulator.

This decision transpired in the wake of the 237th meeting of the Board of Directors, signaling a strategic move by the government to address concerns surrounding power theft. As part of an extensive effort to combat electricity pilferage, the Power Division reports a recovery of Rs 34 billion from individuals implicated in the nationwide crackdown.

The Power Division’s report further discloses the suspension of 197 government employees affiliated with relevant institutions, who were found to be complicit in electricity theft.