Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) Linemen Suspended Over Transformer Replacement Allegations
Two linemen and a line superintendent from LESCO have been suspended following a complaint by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. The individuals involved are Line Superintendent Muhammad Hussain, Lineman Shaukat, and Lineman Falak Sher.
The Executive Engineer (XEN) of the Phool Nagar Division stated that a 100-kilowatt transformer was being installed after a 200-kilowatt transformer had burned out. However, local residents and Khawaja Asif’s coordinator allegedly prevented LESCO staff from completing the installation.
Investigation Finds No Evidence Of Corruption
According to the official, he personally visited Chak 27 to investigate the matter but found no evidence that LESCO employees had received any money. The XEN also noted that a private individual named Shabbir collected the alleged bribe from villagers and has no affiliation with the utility company.
High-Level Inquiry Launched
The incident follows Khawaja Asif’s social media post alleging corruption in the replacement of a transformer in one of his employees’ village, where an Rs80,000 bribe was reportedly paid. The LESCO’s Directorate of Surveillance and Inspection is currently conducting a high-level inquiry into these allegations.