National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a suspected mastermind behind the rampant vandalism of transformers in Murang'a county.
In a statement, Kenya Power and Lighting Company(KPLC) James Ng’ang’a Muiruri was apprehended at his home in Karugia area, Saba Saba, after a weekend-long operation.
A KPLC service cable was recovered from his house in the search.
Further, the utility company says that Ng'ang'a's accomplice, Vincent Gatoto Ndumia, had been arrested the previous night while attempting to vandalize a 100KVA transformer at Keria village near the 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 the statement.
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Four additional suspects were also detained during the crackdown after being pursued by the multi-agency squad.
The foursome is considered a part of a wider organization responsible for damaging transformers and other electrical equipment in the counties of Murang'a and Nyeri.
"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.
