On one hand, inflation across the country has made life unbearable for the public, and on the other hand, government institutions have turned into mafias looting the poor with both hands. The recent extortion scandal involving the Sui Southern Gas Company has caused great distress among citizens.
Complaints from consumers and media reports have revealed that the gas company has broken the backs of citizens by issuing bills of thousands of rupees for minimal unit usage.
One citizen revealed on social media that a bill of Rs. 1,500 was issued for 90 units of usage, while a staggering bill of Rs. 5,220 was issued for 99 units—a minor difference.
Surprisingly, a difference of just 9 units led to an almost 3.5-fold increase in the bill, which is not only illogical but outright oppressive. Citizens say that after K-Electric, now comes the Sui Gas mafia, emerging as the new face of extortion.
A resident of Sector 5E in New Karachi has complained that there has been no gas in the area for six months, yet bills continue to be regularly issued.
The complainant questioned whether widowed women should spend thousands of rupees on gas cylinders or feed their children bread. The consumer number 8318729268 was also provided so that action could be taken against this injustice.
Another consumer pointed out vague charges in their gas bill. Citizens say this is another new tactic, like PUG charges, through which the common consumer is being squeezed. Complainants are seeking guidance on whether these charges can be legally removed or if this too is another permanent form of looting.
According to detailed reports by MM News, a well-organized corruption network is operating within SSGC, which is not only involved in gas theft but has also swallowed billions of rupees through fake charges, false meter readings, and fictitious billing. Following the exposure of SSGC’s new scandal, there is widespread anger among the public.
Affected consumers have demanded a high-level transparent investigation into all SSGC billing policies and charges, and an immediate removal of all additional and illegal charges from the bills. Citizens have appealed to the Chief Justice of Pakistan, the NAB Chairman, FIA, and the Ombudsman to take notice of the extortion by SSGC and to provide justice to the affected citizens.
