Three suspects behind vandalism of Kenya Power infrastructure arrested in Eldoret

Police in Uasin Gishu County have arrested three suspects believed to be behind a wave of vandalism of Kenya Power infrastructure, including 40 transformers valued at Sh120 million in a span of two(2) months.

According to Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi, a security team comprising police officers and officials from Kenya Power arrested two(2) suspects who were transporting vandalised transformer using a vehicle with a concealed number plate.

Mr Mwanthi said the issue of vandalism has been rampant in the past two(2) months in the North Rift region with 40 Transformers being vandalism in the past two months alone.

"Following a tip-off from members of the public, police with the help of officers from Kenya Power swung into action and managed to arrest the two(2) suspects who were using a vehicle whose number plate had been concealed," said Mr Mwanthi while briefing the press.

He said police also managed to arrest the third suspect believed to be the handler of the stolen transformers at Munyaka at the outskirts of Eldoret City  

Ainabkoi MP Samuel Chepkonga said his constituency alone has lost at least 16 transformers to vandalism in the same period.

"This has deprived l people of electricity in their homes and businesses. This is economic crime. We   condemned people who want to make money at the expense of others," said Mr Chepkonga.

Police believe the vandalised material, especially copper, is taken into neighbouring country Uganda and then transported back to Kenya for business.

"We call on the Ugandan authorities to help us arrest this issue completely for our people to enjoy the fruits of their labour," the MP said.