Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of electricity infrastructure belonging to Kenya Power in the Manyatta Kona Maji area of Kisumu County.
The suspects, Stephen Bala Magak and Frederick Odhiambo Owino, are accused of receiving stolen energy infrastructure from vandals in the region and reselling it to individuals who engage in illegal electricity connections.
Kenya Power’s security team, working in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, managed to recover equipment valued at approximately KShs 3 million.
The items included six steady bars, one cross arm (channel), three rolls of stay wire measuring about 100 metres, 146 shackle insulators, and around 20 metres of HT aluminium conductors.
“The two suspects are already in custody, and this operation is a testament to our commitment to weed out all persons involved in illegal activities within the network. We call upon members of the public to work with us in reporting and safeguarding the infrastructure that powers their businesses and lives,” said Kenya Power’s Security Services Manager, Maj. (Rtd.) Geoffrey Kigen.
He added: “The Western Region and Kisumu County have been experiencing power challenges, some stemming from vandalism and, in some cases, illegal connections. Through a coordinated security operation between Kenya Power and the Kisumu Central Sub-County Police, we have managed to recover a huge consignment of our equipment valued at approximately KShs 3 million. We thank the law enforcers for their support in our fight against criminal activities that compromise the stability of power supply and endanger lives.”
The Energy Act 2019 criminalises tampering with electricity installations, energy theft, vandalism, and damage to power infrastructure. Offenders face a fine of up to KShs 5 million, a prison sentence of up to five years, or both.
These security operations underscore Kenya Power’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted power supply to its customers.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Discover more from Energy News Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.