Two suspects have been arrested after police intercepted approximately one tonne of stolen Kenya Power steel conductors during an intelligence-led operation in Shanzu, Mombasa County.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), officers from Bamburi Police Station acted on credible intelligence after receiving reports that a group of young men had been seen in possession of wire cables suspected to have been stolen from Kenya Power. Acting on the information, the officers launched a swift operation and laid an ambush in the Shanzu area.
The operation resulted in the recovery of about one tonne of steel conductors that had been hidden in a bush, with preliminary investigations revealing that the cables had been stolen from the Shanzu Substation. Two suspects were arrested at the scene and are currently in police custody awaiting arraignment in court on charges related to the theft.
Police also recovered three mobile phones believed to be linked to the suspects. The devices have been secured as exhibits and will aid investigators as they continue with inquiries. Authorities have confirmed that efforts to identify and apprehend additional suspects believed to be involved in the theft are underway.
The National Police Service noted that vandalism and theft of electricity infrastructure continue to pose a significant threat to the country’s power network and economic development.
Criminals targeting substations, transformers, conductors and other electrical equipment not only disrupt electricity supply but also expose communities to prolonged power outages and compromise the delivery of essential services.
The destruction of power infrastructure often affects homes, businesses, schools, hospitals and other critical institutions, while also increasing repair and maintenance costs that eventually impact consumers. The losses associated with such criminal activities place an additional financial burden on utility providers and hinder economic growth.
The NPS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public infrastructure through intelligence-led operations, enhanced patrols and close collaboration with stakeholders.
The Service also advised the members of the public to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities related to vandalism and theft of public utilities.
