NAIROBI, Kenya — Detectives have recovered 12 suspected stolen electricity meters from a house in Kawangware, Nairobi, and arrested a man suspected of links to their theft, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has said.
In a statement on Sunday, October 18, 2026, the DCI said the recovery followed an intelligence-led operation at Kawangware Stage 56 after officers received information linking a suspect to the theft of Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) equipment.
Detectives searched the suspect’s residence and recovered the 12 meters, which were seized as exhibits as investigations began into their origin and possible connection to reported thefts.
“An intelligence-led operation in Kawangware has led to the arrest of a suspect behind an electricity meter theft syndicate, and the recovery of 12 suspected stolen electricity meters from his house,” the DCI said.
The agency described the man as a person of interest in the case, but did not disclose his identity or provide details of the alleged thefts.
KPLC joins investigation
Kenya Power personnel have joined detectives in examining the recovered meters and helping establish where the equipment came from.
Investigators are seeking to determine whether the meters were stolen from specific customers or installations and whether they are connected to other reported cases involving electricity equipment.
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The DCI has not disclosed whether the recovered meters had been earmarked for resale or whether additional suspects have been identified.
The technical examination is expected to help investigators establish the equipment’s origin and determine whether further action is warranted.
Suspect held as investigations continue
The suspect remained in police custody as detectives processed the case, according to the information provided by the DCI. The agency said he was expected to be taken to court.
Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft and whether other individuals were involved in the suspected operation.
The recovery follows a wider effort by security agencies and Kenya Power to address the theft and handling of electricity infrastructure.
In September, police arrested two suspects and recovered several Kenya Power meters during an operation in Lucky Summer, Nairobi, conducted with the utility’s personnel.
The DCI has not provided further details about the Kawangware case. The suspect’s culpability, the origin of the meters and any possible links to other thefts remain matters for investigation.
