Man dies in suspected illegal power connection

BY SAMMY KIMATU
Detectives in Makadara, Nairobi, have launched investigations into the death of a man who was allegedly electrocuted while attempting to illegally tap electricity along Busia Road in Nairobi’s Industrial Area over the weekend.

The incident occurred at around 10pm on Sunday, September 20, 2026, when the suspected electricity tapper was allegedly struck by an electric current while connecting power.

According to police, the man was part of a group suspected of illegally connecting electricity to unsuspecting residents in Mukuru-Kayaba slums in South B, Starehe Sub-County.

Makadara police boss Judith Nyongesa confirmed the incident, saying the man was allegedly working with other individuals involved in illegal electricity connections when he was electrocuted.

“The incident happened around 10pm. When the suspect was struck by electric current, he fell down and his accomplice left him. The body was taken to Nairobi Funeral Home—initially known as City Mortuary,” Mrs Nyongesa told the media.

Police said the man’s accomplices fled the scene after he was struck by electricity, leaving him behind.

Detectives have since commenced investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify other individuals who may have been involved in the alleged illegal connection.

Dangers of illegal connections

The incident has highlighted the dangers associated with unauthorised electricity connections, which can expose those carrying them out as well as members of the public to serious injuries or death.

Illegal power connections can involve tampering with electrical infrastructure without the necessary safety equipment or technical expertise. Such connections may also expose residents and passers-by to live wires and other electrical hazards.

Investigators are expected to establish how the suspected connection was being carried out, the source of the electricity and the identities of the other people who were allegedly working with the deceased.

The body was moved to Nairobi Funeral Home, where it is being preserved pending identification and further procedures.

Detectives are also expected to record statements from witnesses and other people who may have information about the incident.

Mrs Nyongesa said the investigations would help establish the circumstances that led to the man’s death and determine whether other people should be held accountable.

The incident comes amid continued concerns over unsafe and illegal electricity connections in informal settlements and other densely populated areas of Nairobi, where makeshift connections can pose significant risks to residents.

Police have urged members of the public with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as detectives continue with their inquiries.