LAHAN: The Lahan-based Nepal Electricity Authority detained 19 persons on charge of power hooking from different places of Siraha district on Tuesday.

The authorities detained the individuals from Bastipur and Govindapur of Lahan Municipality and Bishnupur of Dhangadhimai Municipality, located in the northern rim of Siraha, informed the NEA Lahan Distribution Centre Chief Madhav Prasad Yadav.

The authorities also slapped them a fine of Rs 95, 000, added Yadav.

A joint team of NEA officials and police seized equipment including water pump motor, fan, television among others used in stealing electricity.

The electricity leakage in Lahan area has increased to around 40.44 per cent of late, which has prompted the authorities to tighten its monitoring.