More than 360 metres of electricity conductor wire worth about UGX 7.5 million has been stolen from the Kasese-Fort Portal power transmission line in Kasese District, in the latest attack on critical electricity infrastructure in the region.
The vandalism, which occurred at Kikura Village in Mubuku Town Council, also damaged six electricity poles. An additional 240 metres of 120mm² conductor wire was found hanging at the scene, suggesting the suspects intended to inflict further damage before abandoning the operation. The incident was reported by Ibrahim Sseremba, a Network Technical Officer with the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), prompting police to visit the scene and launch investigations.
Rwenzori East Regional Police spokesperson Elly Maate said preliminary investigations indicate the latest theft could be linked to a similar incident reported on July 13, 2026. According to Maate, investigators believe the suspects returned to continue cutting the transmission line from where they had previously stopped, pointing to an organised pattern of vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure.
The incident has heightened concerns among residents over the increasing destruction of electricity infrastructure. Zone Biira, a resident of Kisanyarazi Cell, said repeated theft of power lines has become a common occurrence, leaving communities without electricity and disrupting businesses and other essential services.
She called for tighter security around power installations to deter vandals. Police have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals or activities near electricity infrastructure to aid investigations.
Authorities say efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible while strengthening the protection of critical power infrastructure in the region-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
