Security agencies have arrested three Kenya Railways employees over the alleged siphoning of fuel from train wagons at the Sultan Hamud Railways Station, in a case that has renewed concerns over theft targeting critical infrastructure.
The suspects, identified as a locomotive driver and two security guards attached to the station, were apprehended on Saturday, January 17, after members of the public raised the alarm over suspicious activity. Acting on the tip-off, officers from Kenya Railways and the Port Police moved swiftly and caught the trio in the act.
During the operation, police recovered several containers used in the theft, including 20-litre jerry cans and two 18-litre water dispenser bottles, all filled with petrol siphoned from the train wagons. In total, the suspects were found in possession of 76 litres of fuel.
According to the latest pricing by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), a litre of petrol currently retails at Ksh182.52. Based on this rate, the recovered fuel is estimated to be worth approximately Ksh 12,955.72.
Investigators revealed that the train involved was an industrial train, which commonly carries extra fuel in dedicated wagons. These wagons, also known as tank cars, function as mobile storage units designed to transport petrol, diesel, and other fuel products, making them a target for theft.
Following their arrest, the suspects were escorted to Emali Railways Police Station, where they are undergoing processing pending arraignment. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed the arrests, noting that the suspects were detained while the train was stationary at Sultan Hamud awaiting a смен of drivers.
The DCI has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report similar incidents through its toll-free number 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
Incidents involving theft of railway assets are not isolated. In June last year, police arrested a suspect in Kibini, Kajiado County, while transporting stolen Standard Gauge Railway materials, including railway sleepers and rail bars, highlighting the persistent threat to railway infrastructure across the country.