At least 29 transformers belonging to the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) have been vandalised in Nakuru County over the past year.

According to KPLC Central Rift boss Zachari Wambati, the company has suffered a loss of more than Sh9million from the vandalised transformers in the region.

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Mr Wambati blamed the vandalism for the frequent power cuts experienced in different parts of the county.

Speaking during a sensitisation forum with Nakuru scrap metal dealers in Shabab, Mr Wambati regretted that cases of vandalism of critical government infrastructure were on the rise in the county.

The transformers have become popular targets for vandals who want to steal copper wires and transformer oil. The copper is sold to scrap metal dealers, while the transformer oil is sold to food vendors who use it to cook chips.

"We are worried about the increasing cases of vandalism, which has resulted in huge losses to the company and the country in terms of revenue," Mr Wambati said.

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Other items that have been targeted include conductors and transmission lines.

Francis Mugo, the chairperson of the Scrap Metal Council, said the council had embarked on a campaign to sensitise scrap metal dealers on how to identify critical government infrastructure and where to report cases of vandalism.

Mr Mugo urged the dealers to conduct their business in a lawful manner without breaking the law.

He revealed that the council was working with the police to bring to book those involved in vandalism.

"Let the dealers operate within the legal framework. They should get licences for easy monitoring and avoid acts of vandalism," Mr Mugo said.

Sammy Mwangi, the chairperson of the United Scrap Dealers disciplinary committee, thanked the council for sensitising them and pledged to be at the forefront of the fight against vandalism of materials.

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Mr Mwangi said they were ready to take action against any member found to be involved in the malpractices.

"Now that our members have been educated, we will not tolerate anyone who indulges in vandalism. We will not allow a rogue dealer to ruin our business," Mr Mwangi said.

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29 transformers vandalised in Nakuru in the past one year

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Joseph Openda