QESCO line staff allegedly attacked during anti-theft operation in Usta Muhammad, FIR registered

A Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) field team was allegedly attacked by an armed group in Usta Muhammad

QUETTA/JAFFARABAD:  A Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) field team was allegedly attacked by an armed group in Usta Muhammad while carrying out an anti-power theft operation on an 11KV feeder, according to police records and official documents.

The City Police Station Usta Muhammad registered a case against the alleged attackers under multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code. However, no arrest had been made by the evening of October 2, around 48 hours after the incident, according to officials, prompting concern among QESCO employees and their union representatives.

According to FIR No. CITY-10/1/2026-139, registered on October 1 at 9:00am, the incident took place on September 29 at around 1:10pm in Village Muhammad Hassan Rind, Aklo Manjib Sharqi.

The complainant was identified as Amardin, Media Cell In-charge of QESCO Sub Division Usta Muhammad. The case was registered on the basis of written request No. SDC/QESCO/UM-4636.39 dated September 29.

The FIR states that a QESCO team, including Line Man-I Imdad Hussain, had reached the area to disconnect illegal direct hooks allegedly connected to an 11KV feeder. During the operation, between 15 and 20 armed individuals allegedly attacked the electricity workers using sticks and batons.

According to the police complaint, the attackers allegedly tore Imdad Hussain’s clothes and physically assaulted him, causing injuries. The group also allegedly abused QESCO employees, obstructed them from carrying out their official duties and threatened them with serious consequences if they returned to the village.

The injured employee underwent a medical examination at MS Hospital Usta Muhammad.

Police registered the case under several provisions of the PPC, including Sections 353 and 186 relating to interference with public servants, sections concerning hurt, Sections 147, 148 and 149 relating to rioting and unlawful assembly, Section 504 concerning intentional insult and Section 506(ii) relating to criminal intimidation.

Sub-Inspector Muhammad Nadeem Bahrani of City Police Station Usta Muhammad has been appointed as investigating officer.

The incident has reportedly added to concerns among QESCO field workers, who say it is the third reported attack on field staff in Naseerabad Division in about a month.

QESCO has intensified its anti-theft campaign following high line losses in parts of Jaffarabad and Usta Muhammad. Company sources said some 11KV feeders in Usta Muhammad and Dera Allah Yar have recorded losses exceeding 60%, increasing the risks faced by teams attempting to remove illegal connections.

Employee representatives have warned of industrial action if adequate protection is not provided. The line staff association questioned how workers could safely conduct field operations without weapons or police protection when groups allegedly confront them.

Official sources said security had not been provided to the team despite a written request for police assistance. QESCO management has subsequently approached the Deputy Commissioner and District Police Officer of Jaffarabad, seeking permanent police escorts for operations in high-loss areas.

By October 2 evening, the suspects named in the FIR reportedly remained at large. Local sources said efforts were being made through a jirga to resolve the dispute, but QESCO union representatives have rejected any informal settlement and demanded action according to law.

QESCO employees and the injured worker have called for immediate arrests and security arrangements for future anti-theft operations. They have also demanded consideration of anti-terrorism provisions for attacks on government employees performing official duties.

Union leaders warned that failure to make arrests could lead QESCO Sub Division Usta Muhammad to suspend complaint and maintenance services.