KASESE, Uganda — Police in Kasese District have launched investigations to track down individuals responsible for vandalising electricity infrastructure and stealing power line conductors along the Kasese–Fort Portal transmission line.
According to preliminary investigations, the incident occurred during the night of July 17 and 18, 2026, in Kikura Village, Mubuku Town Council, within Hiima Division.
The suspects allegedly cut down and stole approximately 360 metres of 120mm² conductor wire with an estimated value of UGX 7.5 million.
Investigators also discovered an additional 240 metres of conductor wire left hanging at the scene after the vandals failed to remove it. The attack damaged six electricity poles, disrupting part of the transmission line.
The case was reported to police by Ibrahim Sseremba, a Network Technical Officer with the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) in Kasese. Officers visited the scene, documented the damage, and launched inquiries into the incident.
Police say initial findings suggest the latest theft may be connected to an earlier case of vandalism reported on July 13, 2026, along the same transmission line. Investigators believe the suspects returned to continue cutting the conductors from the point where they had previously stopped.
Rwenzori East Regional Police spokesperson ASP Maate Elly said security agencies are working closely with UEDCL and local leaders to strengthen surveillance along the affected corridor.
He added that police will intensify patrols, continue investigations, and pursue those responsible in an effort to recover the stolen conductors and prevent further attacks on critical electricity infrastructure.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around electricity installations, warning that vandalism of public infrastructure not only causes financial losses but also disrupts power supply and affects communities and businesses.
