SNGPL Busts Major Gas Theft Network in Murree

ISLAMABAD: (Staff Reporter) – Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has uncovered a major gas theft operation at a local hotel in Murree during a joint raid conducted with the district administration and police as part of its nationwide drive to curb gas theft and reduce Unaccounted for Gas (UFG).

According to an SNGPL spokesperson, the operation was carried out on July 8, 2026, by the Islamabad Region team with the assistance of the Deputy Commissioner Murree and Kaldana Police. During the raid, officials disconnected the hotel’s gas meter and LPG cylinders, but the gas-powered appliances continued functioning, raising suspicions of an illegal connection.

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A detailed inspection led to the discovery of an approximately 40-metre-long illegal PPR pipeline that had been directly connected to SNGPL’s main gas distribution line on Mall Road, Murree. The unauthorized setup allowed the hotel to bypass the official gas supply system.

The SNGPL team removed the illegal pipeline, valves and fittings, seized the gas meter, and permanently disconnected the service line from the main network. Officials also collected documentary, photographic and video evidence to support legal proceedings and determine the total volume of stolen gas.

Initial estimates suggest the hotel illegally consumed natural gas worth nearly Rs20 million through the unauthorized connection. SNGPL said the amount will be recovered from the consumer in accordance with the company’s rules and regulations.