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The evening of Tuesday, February 13, 2024, turned tragic for residents of Kona Mbuta Manyatta area in Kisumu County when a man was fatally electrocuted while attempting to repair a Kenya Power pole.
The incident occurred around 9 pm when the man, who operated a barber shop and also worked part-time as an electrician, climbed the electricity pole to rectify the cables responsible for a blackout in the area.
According to witnesses, the man was trying to transfer electricity from an inactive power cable to restore his connection when he inadvertently came into contact with a live wire, leading to his untimely demise.
His body was recovered from the scene and transported to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital Mortuary.
Police and Kenya Power officials arrived at the scene approximately an hour after the incident.
Residents expressed frustration over frequent power outages and delays in Kenya Power’s response, leading to individuals attempting unauthorized repairs.
“These incidents are common here, and I have done it myself several times because waiting for Kenya Power is often futile,” remarked one resident.
However, addressing the media, local Member of County Assembly (MCA) Johnston Oketch cautioned against unauthorized tampering with electricity lines, emphasizing their sensitivity and the dangers involved.
“This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder for us to adhere to safety protocols. Power lines are hazardous, and we must avoid any unauthorized interventions,” Oketch cautioned.
As of now, Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.
