Police have recovered stolen Kenya Power equipment during an operation in Mtwapa, following intelligence received by officers from the Mtwapa Police Station.
The search, carried out in a residence within the Cabros-Tausi Hotel area, uncovered assorted electrical devices and cables allegedly stolen from Kenya Power installations.
Two suspects were arrested at the scene and are now in custody pending arraignment. The recovered items have been secured as exhibits.
The National Police Service emphasised that acts of vandalism and theft targeting power installations not only disrupt electricity supply but also endanger public safety and undermine essential services.
“The National Police Service remains committed to deterring acts of vandalism and theft targeting power installations and equipment,” the service said in a statement.
The latest arrests come amid heightened efforts to curb power-related crimes across the country.
Last year, the Ndhiwa Senior Principal Magistrate’s Court handed down lengthy sentences for similar offences.
On December 5, 2025, two men were sentenced to ten years in prison each or ordered to pay a fine of Sh5 million for vandalising electricity equipment and unlawfully handling power infrastructure.
The first accused, David Ochieng Lang’o, was arrested in July 2025 during a joint operation. Authorities reported that Lang’o was found with ten jerricans of oil believed to have been siphoned from vandalised transformers.
Although he pleaded not guilty, the court found the evidence against him sufficient to issue the sentence.
The second accused, Godwin Omondi Oduogi, was arrested in April 2025 by Ndhiwa DCI officers for unlawfully disconnecting a customer.
Investigations by Kenya Power’s security team and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations revealed he was also in possession of a transformer fuse. He, too, pleaded not guilty but was convicted and sentenced.
In its judgment, the court cited growing concerns over frequent vandalism and power outages in Ndhiwa Sub-County, noting that the sentences were meant to deter similar offences and underscore the seriousness of crimes targeting electricity infrastructure.
Kenya Power’s Security Services Manager, Maj. Geoffrey Kigen (Rtd), welcomed the ruling, describing it as a significant step for justice and public protection.
“This ruling continues to reinforce our commitment to safeguarding power infrastructure serving our people,” he said.
Maj. Kigen also expressed gratitude to law enforcement agencies and the judiciary.
“As Kenya Power, we thank the Judiciary and the law enforcement agencies for their continued support in ensuring that justice is served in such cases.”
He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving electricity installations.
Vandalism of power equipment has been a persistent problem in Kenya, often causing prolonged outages and disrupting essential services.
Authorities say these crimes pose serious safety risks, including electrocution and fire hazards.
By stepping up enforcement and collaborating with Kenya Power, the police hope to deter such criminal acts and protect both consumers and infrastructure.
The recent Mtwapa operation signals continued vigilance by police and power authorities in tackling electricity theft. Investigations into the suspects’ alleged involvement in wider networks of stolen electrical goods are ongoing.
by VICTOR KIPLIMO
