Understand Pakistan’s theft & extortion laws under Sections 378 to 389 of the Pakistan Penal Code. Learn about offenses, punishments, and legal provisions related to theft, extortion, and criminal law in Pakistan.

Definition of Theft (Section 378)

Theft is committed when a person dishonestly takes any movable property out of the possession of another person without that person’s consent. The act of moving the property is considered theft.

Punishment for Theft (Section 379)

Whoever commits theft shall be punished with imprisonment for up to three years, or with a fine, or with both.

Aggravated Theft (Sections 380–382)

• Theft in a Dwelling House (Section 380): If theft is committed in a house, tent, or vessel used for residence, imprisonment may extend to seven years, along with a fine.
• Theft by a Servant (Section 381): If a servant commits theft in the possession of their master, the punishment may extend to seven years, along with a fine.
• Theft with Preparation for Causing Harm (Section 382): If theft is committed with preparation for causing harm, punishment may extend to ten years, along with a fine.

Definition of Extortion (Section 383)

Extortion occurs when a person intentionally puts another in fear of injury and, by inducing that fear, dishonestly compels the person to deliver any property or valuable security.

Punishment for Extortion (Section 384)

Whoever commits extortion shall be punished with imprisonment of up to three years, or with a fine, or with both.

Aggravated Extortion (Sections 385–389)

• Extortion by Putting a Person in Fear of Injury (Section 385): If extortion is attempted by putting a person in fear of injury, punishment extends to two years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
• Extortion by Threatening Death or Grievous Hurt (Section 386): If extortion is committed by threatening death or grievous hurt, punishment extends to ten years imprisonment, along with a fine.
• Extortion by Threatening Destruction of Property (Section 387): If extortion is committed by threatening to destroy property by fire, imprisonment may extend to seven years, along with a fine.
• Extortion to Commit an Offense Punishable with Death or Life Imprisonment (Section 388): If extortion is committed to facilitate a crime punishable by death or life imprisonment, the punishment extends to ten years imprisonment, along with a fine.
• Putting a Person in Fear to Commit Extortion (Section 389): If a person is put in fear of being accused of a crime to commit extortion, punishment extends to ten years imprisonment, along with a fine.

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