KAKAMEGA, Kenya — Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a suspect linked to a string of transformer vandalism incidents that left parts of Kakamega County without electricity for months.
The suspect, identified as Alfred Hassan Bushuru, was apprehended after nearly two years of evading authorities, following an earlier raid on his residence in Shianda village in August 2024.
According to investigators, Bushuru had initially escaped during a joint operation involving officers from the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), but left behind critical evidence, including dismantled transformer components, copper windings, electrical equipment, and containers of transformer oil.
Upon his recent arrest, the suspect reportedly led detectives back to his homestead, where a forensic search yielded additional items, including KPLC meter cards, multiple SIM cards, a filled electricity application form, and job cards from various institutions bearing his name.
DCI said preliminary investigations link the suspect to a broader network involved in transformer vandalism across Malava and surrounding areas, a crime that has disrupted power supply and affected livelihoods.
The suspect is currently being held at Kabras Police Station as detectives prepare to arraign him in court.
Authorities described the arrest as a breakthrough in efforts to dismantle syndicates targeting critical infrastructure. Transformer vandalism has been a persistent challenge in parts of western Kenya, often leading to prolonged blackouts, economic losses, and increased repair costs.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to working with KPLC to safeguard national infrastructure, warning that individuals involved in vandalism would face the full force of the law.
The case highlights growing concern over organised theft of electrical components, with security agencies increasingly treating such acts as economic sabotage due to their impact on communities and the broader economy.
