By R, KNA
Police in Kisumu county have arrested two suspects linked to the theft of electricity infrastructure worth Sh3 million.
Kenya Power Security Services Manager, Geoffrey Kigen, confirmed in a statement that the suspects were found in possession of stolen energy equipment following a joint operation by the Kenya Police Service and Kenya Power’s security team.
The two men, identified as Stephen Bala Magak and Frederick Odhiambo Owino, were arrested in Manyatta estate, Kona Maji area.
“The suspects are already in custody. This operation demonstrates our commitment to eliminating individuals engaged in illegal activities within the power network,” Kigen said.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the two are part of a wider syndicate involved in illegal electricity connections and vandalism targeting critical power infrastructure in the region.
Recovered items included steady bars, cross arms, stay wires, conductors, insulators, danger plates, bolts, cables, surge diverters and other Kenya Power fittings.
“Through a coordinated security operation, we have managed to recover a large haul of equipment valued at about Sh3 million.
We appreciate the support of law enforcement in tackling criminal activities that compromise power supply stability and put lives at risk,” Kigen added.
He noted that vandalism and illegal connections have been a persistent problem in Kisumu and the wider Western Region, often causing power outages.
Kigen appealed to the public to support Kenya Power’s efforts by reporting cases of theft and safeguarding infrastructure.
Under the Energy Act 2019, tampering with electricity installations, energy theft and vandalism attract penalties of up to Sh5 million in fines, five years in prison, or both.