The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has confirmed the death of one of its employees, Shadrack Makembo, who succumbed to injuries after a brutal attack while on duty in Isiolo County.

In a statement issued on Friday, April 10, the utility said Makembo was assaulted on April 9 in the Checheles area near Isiolo Town during a routine operation targeting illegal electricity connections.

He received emergency treatment at the scene before being airlifted to Nairobi for specialised care, but later died from his injuries.

“Kenya Power deeply regrets to announce the passing of one of our staff members who was attacked while on duty,” read part of the statement, as the company extended condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

Preliminary findings suggest the attack may be linked to suspected fraudulent electricity use at the premises where the incident occurred. KPLC said it is working closely with security agencies to apprehend a suspect identified as Sheik Mayo, who remains at large.

The company strongly condemned the attack, terming it “unacceptable,” and pledged to support Makembo’s family during the mourning period.

The incident underscores the growing risks faced by Kenya Power field staff, particularly those involved in enforcement operations against illegal connections. According to the utility, this is not an isolated case, noting that several employees have previously been attacked while carrying out their duties.

On April 9, the company had also reported a separate assault involving a meter reader on duty, further highlighting what it described as a worrying trend.

Kenya Power has urged the public to cooperate with its staff and ensure their safety, especially as the company rolls out a new Optical Character Recognition (OCR) system aimed at improving meter reading efficiency across the country.