Mohmand police have arrested five alleged members of a gang accused of carrying out a series of transformer thefts across the district. Stolen transformer coils, cash, a motorcycle, and other equipment believed to have been used in the crimes were recovered. The arrests were made during a targeted operation launched as part of an ongoing campaign against organized crime and property-related offenses in the district, police officials said on Friday.
Background of the Operation
According to police, multiple complaints had been received from residents regarding transformer thefts in various parts of Mohmand. In response, District Police Officer (DPO) Raza Muhammad constituted a special investigation team under the supervision of Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Ekkaghund Circle Dilfraz Khan and Station House Officer (SHO) Qasim Jan.
Arrests and Recoveries
Following intelligence-based operations, technical surveillance, and extensive field investigations, the team arrested five suspects identified as Abdullah of Machni, Ibrahim of Warsak, Zahid of Warsak, Umair of Warsak, and Shiraz of Warsak. Police alleged that the suspects were involved in several transformer theft cases reported from Darwazgai Mateen Kor, Sherano, Kado Kor, Kashi Kor, and Aqal Kor.
During the operation, officers recovered 20 transformer coils, Rs150,000 in cash, a motorcycle, and other items believed to have been used during the commission of the offenses.
Attempted Thefts Thwarted
Investigators further claimed that the suspects had attempted similar thefts in Raziq Tabar, Aqal Kor, and Umar Kor. However, resistance from local residents reportedly forced them to abandon their plans and flee the scene before completing the thefts.
Officials described the arrests as a significant success in efforts to dismantle organized theft networks and protect public infrastructure in the district. Transformer thefts have long posed challenges for local communities, often disrupting electricity supply and causing financial losses to public utilities.
Ongoing Investigations
Police said further investigations were underway and additional recoveries and arrests could not be ruled out as the inquiry progresses. The arrested suspects remain in police custody, while investigations into the broader network and possible accomplices are continuing.
