Murang’a County Commissioner Patrick Mukuria has issued a stern warning to residents about the theft and vandalism of Kenya Power Company (KPC) transformers, highlighting the extensive blackouts these actions cause.
Speaking at Mjini in Murang’a town, Mukuria expressed concern over the rising incidents of transformer part theft in the county. Culprits are targeting copper wires and transformer oil, which are reportedly sold at high prices on the black market.
“In the recent past, we have had to deal with many cases of this particular crime that wasn’t there before, and that is vandalism of transformers,” Mukuria stated.
He urged residents to take ownership of the transformers meant to serve them and to collectively protect these vital installations from vandalism.
“When a transformer is vandalized, the beneficiary residents go without power for long periods before a replacement is done, affecting homes and businesses,” Mukuria observed.
The Commissioner emphasized that the transformers are for the residents’ benefit and not just the property of KPC, underscoring the need for community protection.
Mukuria called on Murang’a residents to report any suspicious activity near transformers and along power lines to the relevant authorities to prevent further losses.
