Power line vandalism in Uganda poses a significant threat to public safety, service reliability, and economic stability. In response, Ugandan courts have taken firm action, convicting multiple offenders in a series of landmark cases under the Electricity Act, Cap. 157. These convictions underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding vital energy infrastructure amid rising electricity-related crimes.

In recent rulings, the Standards, Utilities, and Wildlife Court—known as the Electricity Court—sentenced several individuals for tampering with electrical installations and illegally possessing electric materials. This court has demonstrated a strong stance on energy infrastructure crimes, setting a clear precedent across various districts against such destructive behavior.

On September 26, 2024, Nakate Christine was convicted after authorities discovered unauthorized electric materials in her shop in Lira City. Found storing suspension clamps, string clamps, Gy grips, and ABC cables without proper authorization, Nakate received a fine of 6 million Ugandan Shillings, or, in default, a two-year prison term. Her conviction was under Section 85 (1)(b) and (2) of the Electricity Act.

Similarly, on September 17, 2024, Musema Gilbert was sentenced to six years in prison for possessing stolen electric materials. Musema was found vandalizing power lines and using aluminum wires to manufacture hangers. He was convicted for interfering with electric meters and possessing stolen property, highlighting the severity of his actions.

In Kyegegwa District on September 9, 2024, Saul Twesengyerize and Ahimbisibwe Devis were sentenced to nine months in prison for vandalizing electric lines. The two were caught cutting down electric wires belonging to the Kyegegwa Rural Electrification Cooperative Society (KRECS). Charged with tampering with electrical installations under Section 85 A(1)(a) of the Electricity Act and theft under the Penal Code, their case serves as a warning against such offenses.

In Mukono District, on May 23, 2024, Lubega Stephen was convicted for unauthorized electrical installations and possessing stolen electric materials. He was found conducting installations in Namere village without a valid permit and was sentenced to 30 months in prison under Sections 85 A(1)(a), (b), (c), and 88(1) and (2) of the Electricity Act.

On August 29, 2024, Jalla Ahamad was convicted after being found storing 3,400 kg of vandalized copper wire, which he smelted and used to make metal goods. He received a fine of 15 million Ugandan Shillings or, in default, a three-year prison term for interference with electric meters, under the Electricity Amendment Act of 2022.

A severe case on April 30, 2024, involved Somwoike Akram, who was sentenced to eight years in prison for vandalizing high-voltage infrastructure. Somwoike was caught removing angle bars from the Bujagali-Tororo line, property of the Uganda Transmission Company Limited (UETCL). His actions were deemed highly detrimental, and he was convicted for cutting and stealing electric supply lines under Sections 85 A(1)(a) and (c) of the Electricity Act.

Prosecutor Kyohairwe Charlotte from the Electricity Regulatory Authority emphasized the rise in vandalism cases, noting that the cost of vandalized materials has reached 400 million Ugandan Shillings—a burden often passed on to consumers through higher tariffs. Kyohairwe underscored the need for strict sentencing to discourage future offenders and protect Uganda’s energy infrastructure.

Unauthorized electrical installations were also flagged as a critical issue. Unqualified individuals conducting electrical work pose serious risks of fire, electrocution, and equipment failures, endangering lives and property.

These convictions signal the judiciary’s commitment to tackling power line vandalism, which not only disrupts electricity services but also threatens public safety and economic growth. By enforcing strong sentences, the Electricity Court sends a clear message that acts of vandalism and unauthorized electrical installations will not be tolerated.

As Uganda expands its energy network, enforcing provisions of the Electricity Act regarding interference with electrical works, unauthorized installations, and illegal storage of electric materials will remain a priority. The Electricity Regulatory Authority will continue its public awareness campaigns and collaborative efforts with stakeholders to protect Uganda’s critical energy infrastructure.