NAIROBI, Kenya — A staff member of Kenya Power and Lighting Company has died after being violently attacked while on duty in Checheles area near Isiolo Town, in an incident that has renewed concerns over the safety of utility workers in the field.
The company identified the deceased as Shadrack Makembo, a meter reader who was assaulted on Thursday while carrying out routine duties. He later succumbed to his injuries despite receiving emergency medical care.
According to Kenya Power, Makembo was initially treated at the scene before being airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment. “He sadly succumbed to his injuries,” the utility said in a statement, expressing deep regret over the loss.
Preliminary findings indicate that the attack may be linked to suspected fraudulent electricity consumption at the premises where the incident occurred, suggesting the worker may have been targeted while addressing an illegal connection.
The company condemned the killing as a criminal act and confirmed it is working closely with law enforcement agencies to apprehend the suspect, identified as Sheikh Mayo, who remains at large.
“We strongly condemn this criminal act and are working closely with the investigating authorities to ensure that the suspect… is apprehended and brought to justice,” the statement said.
Kenya Power noted that the incident is not isolated, revealing that several employees have previously been attacked while on duty. The utility warned that such violence not only endangers lives but also disrupts essential service delivery across the country.
The incident raises broader questions about the enforcement of electricity regulations and the risks faced by frontline workers tasked with curbing power theft—a persistent challenge that costs the country billions in lost revenue annually.
Kenya Power has reiterated its commitment to strengthening safety protocols for staff, including reviewing deployment strategies and working with security agencies to safeguard employees in the field.
The company also called on members of the public to support its workforce, stressing that cooperation is essential to ensure a safe and reliable electricity supply.
Makembo’s death adds to a growing list of safety concerns in public service delivery, highlighting the human cost behind efforts to enforce compliance and maintain critical infrastructure.
