🔊 ERA seeks tougher security response to Teso power vandalism

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The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) has called on security agencies in Teso to help combat the rising cases of vandalism and illegal power connections in the region.

ERA warned that these crimes are costing the government billions of shillings and endangering lives. 

Speaking during an engagement with security officials in Soroti, ERA’s eastern region supervisor, Kenneth Muhumuza, highlighted that power theft and vandalism remain significant challenges.



Muhumuza revealed that a single transformer at a substation costs over shillings 2 billion, while one transmission tower costs around shillings 200 million.

He expressed concern that, despite vandalism being categorised as an act of terrorism under the law, many locals continue to engage in these activities.

He also noted that power theft has caused fatal accidents, affecting both children and adults.



Local leaders, including Soroti City East mayor Paul Omer and Soroti district LC5 chairperson Simon Peter Edoru, raised concerns over frequent blackouts during rainfall, which create opportunities for criminals to operate under cover of darkness.

Omer also questioned why the government does not compensate businesses and individuals who suffer losses due to power interruptions, especially when appliances like fridges and computers are damaged.

Soroti resident district commissioner (RDC) Paul Eseru expressed frustration over the presence of multiple electricity agencies, which has caused confusion among local leaders and residents.

His counterpart, Soroti resident city commissioner Peter Pex Paak, echoed similar concerns, calling for clear explanations from ERA.

To address the issue, RDC Eseru pledged that the district security committee would intensify efforts to curb vandalism and illegal connections. 

He welcomed the recent amendment of the law, which now imposes stricter penalties for perpetrators. Previously, vandals faced fines of only 400,000 shillings, which Eseru deemed too lenient.

In response, ERA supervisor Kenneth Muhumuza assured the public that they are working tirelessly to address the challenges affecting electricity consumers.

For now, security agencies in Teso are expected to step up their crackdown on power vandals and illegal connections as ERA continues its efforts to stabilise the electricity supply.