The Nairobi County government has announced a crackdown within the CBD after the discovery of unlawful electricity distribution hubs believed to be enabling gangs to thrive within the city centre.
During a joint operation by the Nairobi County government, Kenya Power and the National Police Service on Monday, an unlawful power station was flagged and dismantled.
The unlawful station, located near the National Archives, was found to be tapping into Kenya Power and Lighting Company lines and then reselling power to nearby businesses.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed the ongoing operation during a press conference to address the state of security in the city.
According to the county boss, the unlawful setup not only compromised the city's power grid but also interfered with security infrastructure, including CCTV networks and street lighting. This, in turn, made it easier for gangs to perpetrate crime in the dark.
"Together with the National Police Service, we have launched sustained joint operations to stamp out these crimes. Over the weekend, several suspects were apprehended, and investigations are ongoing," Sakaja said.
"Those found culpable will face the full force of the law. Let this be a warning – Nairobi will not be a safe haven for criminals.”
The worst-affected areas within the CBD from the illegal connections include Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, the Tom Mboya Monument vicinity, and the Mama Ngina–Moi Avenue junction, all of which have experienced frequent power failures.
County officials further revealed that only one of three power phases remained operational at key intersections, raising concerns of a looming blackout if the hijacking of powerlines persisted.
One emerging challenge from the sabotage of power lines is that it has become dangerous for Kenya Power teams to conduct repairs since maintenance teams have often been targeted by vandals and thugs.
To avert the crisis, the county rolled out a joint action plan with Kenya Power and police forces, with part of the strategy including deploying armed escorts to accompany Kenya Power teams to accelerate streetlight repairs.
Sakaja also called on the business community in the CBD to play a part in curbing insecurity in the city by installing CCTV cameras, which can help in sharing intelligence.
Besides enforcement, Sakaja also revealed he was pursuing preventative measures such as exploring alternative power sources for critical junctions and public awareness campaigns on the dangers of vandalism.
Meanwhile, at least 300 suspects have been arrested in connection with cases of mugging within the CBD.
