Transformer vandalism in Mt Kenya region costing power company millions

The Kenya Power company, Mount Kenya region has lost approximately Sh11 million following the vandalism of 51 transformers.

Speaking to journalists, the Kenya Power Mt Kenya Region Manager David Mwaniki said that businesses in the region are severely affected by power blackouts after the vandalism.

He said the company uses a lot of money to replace the vandalised transformers.

Mr Mwaniki said the criminals are vandalising the transformers at night when the residents are asleep.

He said that the vandalism increased in December 2013 as the thieves managed to steal six transformers.

Nyeri County is the most affected by the vandalism.

On January 28, 2014 vandals struck at the Mweiga sub-station and managed to steal transformers.

Guards at the sub-station were injured in the incident.

He said that although police officers responded to the alarm raised, they did not manage to arrest anyone.

Mr Mwaniki said the attack on Mweiga sub-station affected many businesses including Mathari Mission Hospital.

COPPER WIRES

He pointed out that the thieves are mainly interested in copper wires that are found inside the transformers.

“They steal the copper wires because copper is quite expensive in the country and due to its high demand, vandalism has increased,” he said.

The vandalism, he said also contributes to other crimes as thieves are taking advantage of the blackouts to steal from residents.

Mr Mwaniki said they are planning to open a new automated substation in Nyeri County that will ensure power stability in case of transformer vandalism.

He said the company is also trying to reinforce the transformers by welding metal bars around them as a method of preventing frequent vandalism as they look for other more effective ways.

Mr Mwaniki however said the company will not relent in its efforts to apprehend the vandals.

He urged residents to assist police officers in arresting the offenders.