Two People Electrocuted To Death By Illegal Electricity
ASP James Mubi with the victim's family
Police and leaders in Jinja,Buwenge have vowed to track down residents who have continued to participate in electricity theft; people tapping the grid illegally, meter bypassing and not settling bills.
This comes after four people got electrocuted as they were hanging up tents to be used in a ceremony organized by Farm Uganda Stew, a Community Based Organisation (CBO) to appreciate farmers in the area. Two people died including the speaker of Buwenge sub county Bisike Mustapha (32) and Weraga Peter, the village health worker leaving two others in hospital fighting for their life.
The Busede sub county Councillor, Ramathan Magala has opened up on the increasing electricity theft cases in Jinja district that has led to a number of deaths.
“I’m pleading with my people to stop because we are losing many lives. We have just buried some people because of the same issue and we are sad that it keeps happening.” He said.
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Jinja District, Mr. Richard Gulume vows to hunt down the culprits to face the law.
“This will teach us to start informing our people about the dangers of electricity. If we are not careful, it may become one of the biggest problems, especially those that bypass wires underground.” He said
Police also requested residents to follow the right procedures of acquiring electricity and use experienced people to do the wiring of their houses.
Over the years, there has been an outcry about the increase of power theft and vandalism of electricity installations. According to statistics from Uganda’s main electricity distribution company, UMEME, 8% out of the 17% distribution energy losses come from electricity theft.
Last year, the government of Uganda proposed fines of up to UGX 400 million for anyone caught in power theft or serving up to 10 years in prison.
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