A suspected mastermind behind a rampant vandalism of transformers in Murang’a county has been arrested, Kenya Power has stated.
James Ng’ang’a Muiruri was apprehended at his home in Karugia area, Saba Saba, after a weekend-long joint operation between National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
A Kenya Power service cable was recovered from his house after a search was conducted.
Kenya Power says that Ng’ang’a’s accomplice, Vincent Gatoto Ndumia had been arrested the previous night while attempting to vandalise a 100KVA transformer at Keria village near Mitarakwa factory.
“At the time of his arrest, Mr. Gatoto was driving a motor vehicle belonging to Mr. Ng’ang’a. Upon further investigations and interview by the security team, it was established that Mr.Gatoto was working under instruction from Mr. Ng’ang’a who was the receiver of the vandalised transformers,” read part of a statement by Kenya Power.
Another four suspects were also apprehended in the crackdown after the multi-agency team trailed them.
The quartet is believed to be part of a larger syndicate driving vandalism of transformers and other electricity equipment within Murang’a and Nyeri counties.
“A search at their homesteads in Gikondi, Mukurweini recovered copper windings that were obtained from vandalised transformers,” said Kenya Power.
Kenya Power Security Services Manager Maj. Paul Nyaga (Rtd) lauded the security agencies in their successful crackdown, warning members of the public against engaging in illegal activities on the electricity network.
“We will continue carrying out surveillance on the network to weed out all illegal activities that not only endanger the lives of the vandals but also pose danger of loss of life to members of the public,” he said.
