Cop among 3 arrested over alleged KPLC vandalism in Nairobi

Police have arrested three suspects in connection with vandalism of the Kenya Power and Lighting Company cables along Mombasa Road in Nairobi.

This was after KPLC Nairobi Area security team received a tip-off about ongoing vandalism of copper cables along Mombasa Road, near Nyayo Stadium.

According to the National Police Service, the area has recently been affected by similar incidents.

Police arrived at the scene and the team allegedly encountered approximately 10 individuals armed with crude weapons.

Police said the suspects were actively digging up and vandalising the cables. While several suspects escaped, three were apprehended, including a police officer.

Police said all three suspects, along with the recovered materials, are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

“The National Police Service (NPS) is thankful for the information from the public that led to this arrest and warns the general public against engaging in vandalism and other criminal activities,” NPS said in a statement.

The Service reiterated its commitment to taking firm action against all offenders and urged the public to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

In May, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi condemned a wave of vandalism and sabotage targeting electricity infrastructure, describing the acts as tragic and unacceptable.

Wandayi expressed disappointment over the destruction of critical infrastructure, including the siphoning of oil from transformers, cutting of electricity wires, and even felling of electric poles.

He termed the incidents as deliberate sabotage rather than petty theft.

“This is more than being a thief. This is outright sabotage,” he said, adding that some people are cutting wires, siphoning transformer oil, and bringing down electricity poles.

The CS said it was shocking that while the government is working hard to bring development like electricity to the people, a few individuals are busy destroying it.

Wandayi urged national government officials present, including administrative officers from the DCC's office, to assistant chiefs and the police to act swiftly and ensure those behind the vandalism are arrested and prosecuted.

“I call on the police and all relevant authorities to take legal action. Let those responsible be taken to court and dealt with according to the law. This behaviour must come to an end,” he said.