Notorious Kirinyaga Electrician John Wareri Among Five Arrested in KPLC Sting Operation
A major sting operation led by the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) security team in Kirinyaga County has resulted in the arrest of five individuals, including a notorious rogue electrician known for unauthorized electricity connections in the area. The suspects were nabbed in Kagio, Kiamaciri, and Kangai villages during a coordinated raid following a community tip-off and weeks of surveillance by the Mt. Kenya regional KPLC team.
Key Arrest: John Wareri
At the center of the crackdown is John Wareri, a well-known electrician in Kagio, who was arrested at his hideout. He faces charges related to:
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Illegal power connections
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Tampering with transformer (TX) fuses
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Operating without a valid license
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Unauthorized use of KPLC energy infrastructure
Wareri is believed to be a repeat offender and a major contributor to recurring transformer faults in the region.
Other Suspects and Seized Equipment
KPLC also confirmed the arrest of four other individuals:
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Nelson Maina, chair of the Kagio electricians' welfare group, was caught stealing prepaid meters and Customer Interface Units (CIUs). He is facing serious charges, including energy equipment theft and unlicensed operations.
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David Mungai, found in Kiamaciri village, was in possession of wooden climbers, a safety belt, and electrical tools. His motorbike was impounded, and he is being investigated for network interference and illegal connections.
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Jane Wangithi, a plot owner, and her tenant Ken Kathimba were found with three prepaid meters whose sources could not be verified. The two are assisting police with investigations.
In total, 9 prepaid meters, 7 CIUs, and multiple climbing tools were recovered during the operation.
Government Speaks Out
Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira, speaking from Kangai village in Mwea, issued a stern warning:
“Electricity theft and vandalism undermine our infrastructure, increase costs for law-abiding Kenyans, and slow national development. We urge the public to report suspicious energy activities at the nearest KPLC office.”
Legal Action Underway
All suspects were taken to Kiamaciri Police Station and are expected to be arraigned in court after investigations conclude. KPLC emphasized its commitment to eradicating illegal electricity connections and protecting the integrity of the national power grid.
KPLC Encourages Public Vigilance
KPLC applauded the members of the public whose tip-offs led to the arrests, noting that community collaboration is vital in safeguarding energy infrastructure.
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