City Hall authorities have unearthed an illegal electricity supply point near the National Archives in Nairobi believed to be part of a wider network of power theft and tampering with public infrastructure across the Central Business District (CBD).

Investigators indicate that the hub siphoned electricity from Kenya Power cables and sold it to traders and interfered with street lighting and security cameras. The illegal connections are attributed with causing constant blackout in sections of the CBD and a surge in crimes targeting businesses and pedestrians.

The main suspect, believed to be masterminding the operation, remains on the loose as the police pursue him.

Meanwhile, Governor Johnson Sakaja, together with Kenya Power and the National Police Service, has initiated a joint initiative of restoring power and enhancing security. The initiative involves guarding power connection points, speeding up replacement of damaged streetlights, and providing armed escorts for staff working in risky areas.

“Over the weekend, several suspects were apprehended, and investigations are ongoing. Let this be a warning, Nairobi will not be a haven for criminals,” Sakaja said on Monday.

Most of the city centre, including Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, Tom Mboya Monument, and Mama Ngina/Moi Avenue intersection, have suffered from repeated power outages and heightened insecurity due to vandalism and brutality against maintenance personnel.

Officials warn that only one power phase remains operational at some intersections, increasing the risk of a full blackout.

In response, the County has put in place preventive measures such as backup power systems, awareness campaigns, and engaging traders to help monitor and report illegal activities.

“We are calling upon the business community to stand with us,” Governor Sakaja appealed. “Installing CCTV cameras and sharing intelligence will help us identify, track, and neutralise offenders more swiftly.”

Sakaja has also urged the national government to provide additional resources to sustain ongoing urban recovery projects. County officials caution that without immediate financial support and public cooperation, Nairobi’s electricity and security systems could deteriorate into a larger crisis.