9,685 electricity thefts recorded in first four months of 2016

AMMAN — The Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC) said Monday it dealt with 9,685 cases of electricity theft in the first four months of 2016.

EMRC Chief Commissioner Farouq Hiyari was quoted by the Jordan News Agency, Petra, as saying that around 945 cases have been referred to court.

In previous remarks to The Jordan Times, Hiyari said electricity theft is estimated to cost the Kingdom about JD60 million annually. 

Current laws stipulate that any person involved in stealing electricity faces between six months and two years in prison, and a fine of no less than JD2,000 and no more than JD10,000, or both penalties.

In April, the Cabinet endorsed a new draft penal code that stiffens these penalties. Those who commit violations on electricity resources would face no less than three years in prison and at least JD5,000 in fines, under the draft law.