KPLC Security Team Tightens Grip on Rogue Electricians in Kagio Town
Kirinyaga County, Kenya — The Mount Kenya region security team from Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has arrested five individuals in Kagio town for involvement in illegal electricity activities, including unauthorized connections, theft of meters and Customer Interface Units (CIUs), and possession of restricted electrical tools.
Kirinyaga Branch Manager, Eng. Ruto Kipkorir, confirmed the arrests and said the suspects were apprehended following a well-coordinated sting operation. All five are currently being held at Kiamaciri Police Station as investigations continue.
Among the arrested was a well-known rogue electrician, John Wareri, who had been evading arrest for months.
He was found hiding in Kagio town and is accused of tampering with transformer fuses (Tx fuses) and conducting illegal power connections across the county.
“The suspect will be charged with carrying out electricity operations without a license and other energy-related offences,” Eng. Ruto said.
Chair of Electricians’ Group Nabbed
Another key suspect, Nelson Maina—chairperson of the Kagio electricians’ welfare group—was also arrested.
He faces charges of conducting illegal connections and stealing prepaid meters and CIUs.
According to Ruto, Maina was operating without any authorization from KPLC and had been under surveillance for some time.
In a separate incident, David Mungai was caught in Kiamaciri village, Kagio town, while in possession of wooden climbers, a safety belt, and a full set of electrical tools.
His motorcycle was impounded at the Kiamaciri Police Station as evidence. Like the others, Mungai is suspected of repeatedly tampering with electrical infrastructure.
Plot Owner and Tenant Caught with Stolen Meters
The operation also led to the arrest of Jane Wangithi, a landlady in Kagio, and her tenant, Ken Kathimba.
The duo was found in possession of three migrated prepaid meters—equipment suspected to have been stolen. Both were taken in for questioning and recorded statements at the Kiamaciri police station.
PS Alex Wachira Warns Against Power Theft
Meanwhile, while speaking in Kangai village, Mwea constituency, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira issued a stern warning to residents against vandalizing or stealing KPLC equipment.
He urged the public to report suspicious activity at local Kenya Power branch offices.
“Tampering with energy infrastructure puts lives at risk and disrupts essential services. Let’s all be vigilant,” PS Wachira emphasized.
The arrests signal KPLC’s renewed commitment to cracking down on illegal electricity dealings, which continue to pose serious safety and financial risks.
The suspects are expected to face formal charges in court in the coming days.
