Tragedy struck in Cheptais after a 13-year-old boy was electrocuted on Sunday, August 17, when he came into contact with a loosely hanging live wire.
The minor, a Grade Three pupil at Kimama Primary School, was herding cows with his siblings when he spotted the cable dangling from a power line. Witnesses said the boy innocently grabbed the live wire and began swinging on it, unaware of the danger.
“He was electrocuted instantly and died on the spot,” a witness told reporters.
Complaints Ignored by Kenya Power
Residents said the wire had been hanging in the area for days, and despite repeated complaints to local Kenya Power officials, no action was taken.
“This tragedy could have been avoided if Kenya Power responded in time. We reported the hanging cable several times, but nothing was done,” a resident lamented.
Kenya Power officials from Sirisia later arrived at the scene to switch off electricity in the area. The body was moved to a local mortuary for autopsy.
Police Investigation Underway
Investigations into the electrocution are ongoing, while residents continue to demand accountability from the power supply agency.
The incident has reignited debate on Kenya Power’s negligence in handling faulty infrastructure that puts lives at risk, especially children.
