This archive report was first published on 2 August 2019.
On August 2, 2019, a court in Mumias handed down a 25-year prison sentence to two individuals found guilty of stealing and vandalizing transformers.
The two, Yusuf Khayongo Mwongo, alias Yaya, and Razaq Washiali, alias Patty, were charged with counts of stealing, vandalism, and sabotage in connection with the theft of two transformers in Lushea and Masanda areas of Kakamega County.
Appearing before the Senior Principal Magistrate's court, the defendants were found guilty of violating sections 268(1) of the penal code, 64(4)(b) of the Energy Act 2006, and 343 of the penal code.
The court's decision does not allow for a fine, and the sentences will run concurrently.
Reacting to the ruling, Maj. Geoffrey Kigen (Rtd), Manager, Security Services, stated, 'We will not relent on the war against vandalism, illegal power connections, and other crimes that undermine the quality of power supply to our customers and pose danger to electricity consumers. The court ruling is a boost to our operations to stamp out these vices.'
He further urged the public to report any suspicious activities to their offices or nearest police stations.
