Five Arrested in Kirinyaga Over Illegal Power Connections

Kirinyaga County security teams have intensified their crackdown on electricity theft, leading to the arrest of five people in Kagio town. The suspects, apprehended by the Mt. Kenya Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) security team, face charges related to illegal power connections, theft of meters and customer interface units (CIUs), and possession of electrical equipment used for unlawful activities.

According to KPLC Kirinyaga branch manager Eng. Ruto Kipkorir, the suspects were taken to Kiamaciri Police Station. “The first suspect, John Wareri, a notorious electrician, had been on our radar for tampering with TX fuses and conducting unauthorized connections. He will face charges for operating without a license and other energy-related offences,” Kipkorir stated.

Another arrest involved Nelson Maina, chairperson of the Kagio Electricians’ Welfare Group. He is accused of illegal power connections and stealing KPLC meters and CIUs. Similarly, David Mungai was apprehended in Kiamaciri village with wooden climbers, a safety belt, and various electrical tools allegedly used for the illegal work. His motorcycle was also impounded.

The operation also netted a plot owner, Jane Wangithi, and her tenant, Ken Kathimba, after three migrated prepaid meters were found in their possession. Both were detained for questioning and recorded statements with the police.

Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira, while speaking in Kangai village, Mwea constituency, condemned theft of electricity infrastructure. He urged residents to report suspicious activities to local KPLC branch offices.

The arrests underscore the government’s push to clamp down on energy theft, which continues to cost the utility company millions annually. All five suspects remain in custody at Kiamaciri Police Station pending formal charges in court.