Transformer vandals in North Rift and Western jailed 11 years

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A Butali Law Court on Monday, February 23, 2026, sentenced Amos Swahili and Ernest Kemboi to 11 years in prison each for vandalising Kenya Power's transformers and stealing energy equipment across the North Rift and Western regions.

The two men were cornered by detectives in Elgeyo Marakwet on July 15, 2025, arrested, and arraigned on charges on offences that left communities in darkness for weeks.

Court records show that the case was proven beyond reasonable doubt, with prosecutors detailing multiple incidents where the suspects destroyed transformers and stole equipment critical to power distribution.

The suspects will also continue to face similar charges pending at Iten and Eldoret Law Courts.

The DCI welcomed the sentence, describing it as a milestone in efforts to protect national infrastructure.

“This sentencing sends a strong message that those who disrupt power supply and steal national installations will face justice,” said DCI spokesperson John Marete.

Residents in affected areas praised the ruling, noting that transformer vandalism had crippled schools, businesses, and homes, causing widespread disruption.

The DCI reiterated its commitment to preventing vandalism of critical installations and urged communities to report suspicious activity.

“KPLC and national infrastructure are lifelines for communities. Protecting them is protecting development,” the statement added.