s 27
In any prosecution for an offence under subsection Onus of (3) of section, 3z proof of (a) the existence of artificial means which, either alone or in conjunction with additional artificial means not found, could be used for altering, or facilitating the alteration, of the index of any meter or instrument used for registering the quantity of energy supplied; (b) the existence of artificial means which, either alone or in conjunction with additional artificial means not found, would prevent, or facilitate the prevention. of, any meter instrument from duly registering the quantity of energy supplied, or would facilitate the dishonest abstraction, consumption, or use of energy; or (c) (i) the fitting of any mechanical or other means to; (ii) the absence or removal of any part or connection from; or AA588 [Pt. VIII, S. 27-28] (iii) the interference with any part or connection of, any apparatus in the circumstances that the fitting, absence, removal or interference would prevent or facilitate the prevention of any meter or other shall be prima facie evidence that there has been dis. honest alteration of the index of any meter or instru• ment, or prevention, abstraction, consumption Or use of energy, as the case may be; and (i) that the dishonest alteration, prevention, abstraction, consumption or use, as the case may be, has been carried out by- (a) the person fitting the artificial, mechanical or other means as atoresaid; (b) the person removing any such part or connection as aforesaid; (c) the person interfering with any such part or connection as aforesaid; (d) the consumer using the meter or instrument; or (e) the person having control of the installation where it is fixed; or (f) the occupiers of the premises on which the meter or instrument is installed; or (ii) that the person or consumer has abetted the ofience of the alteration, prevention, abstraction, consumption or use, as the case may be.