On Monday morning, Gitaru residents witnessed a shocking tragedy when a man climbed a high-voltage power line and lost his life. Authorities found his lifeless body beneath a Kenya Power pole near Gitaru shopping center, but his identity remains undisclosed.
Investigators believe he was installing unauthorized Wi-Fi equipment after discovering makeshift mounting brackets and a small antenna at the scene. Such illegal setups violate the law and create severe safety risks, especially when they involve live electrical lines.
This tragedy is not an isolated case. Across Kenya, illegal electrical connections and unauthorized installations have caused many fatalities. Kenya Power reports over 345 electrocution deaths in the past three years, with many linked to unsafe wiring practices.
In response, Kenya Power has intensified public awareness campaigns, urging citizens to avoid dangerous electrical connections. The company warns that unauthorized installations endanger lives, trigger frequent power outages, and damage infrastructure.
Authorities continue to investigate the Gitaru incident. Officials call for stricter safety measures and encourage residents to report suspicious electrical activities, prioritizing safety over convenience.
