Three people have been arrested by Kenya Railways Police and Port Police for allegedly siphoning fuel from a train wagon at Sultan Hamud Railway Station, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has said.
The suspects were identified as a locomotive driver, Nicodemus Keya, a security guard, Mutunga Mwanzia, and a civilian, Geoffrey Irungu.
Police said the trio was caught in the act following a tip-off from members of the public who noticed suspicious activity at the station.
According to a police report, officers responded swiftly after receiving the alert and moved to the scene, where they found the suspects siphoning petrol from a stationary train wagon.
Two 20-litre jerrycans and two 18-litre water dispenser bottles filled with petrol were recovered during the operation.
“Responding swiftly, police officers stormed the scene and seized two 20-litre jerrycans and two 18-litre water dispenser bottles filled to the brim with stolen petrol,” the report stated.
At the time of the incident, the train was at the Sultan Hamud Railway Station awaiting a change of crew.
Police said the three suspects took advantage of the pause in operations to carry out the illegal siphoning.
“As the train remained at the Sultan Hamud Railway Station, waiting for a new driver to take over, the three individuals were promptly escorted to Emali Railways Police Station, where they are undergoing processing pending arraignment,” police said.
The arrests underscore growing concerns over fuel theft along transport corridors, an offence authorities describe as a form of economic sabotage with far-reaching implications for public infrastructure and safety.
Fuel siphoning from railway wagons poses significant risks, including fire hazards and disruption of critical transport services.
The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to tackling fuel theft and related crimes, noting that public cooperation remains a key pillar in combating such offences.
“The National Police Service remains firmly committed to combating fuel theft and all forms of economic sabotage through sustained vigilance, swift action, and strong public partnership,” the statement said.
Police also urged members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing the importance of anonymous reporting channels in safeguarding national assets.
Citizens were encouraged to use the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp line 0709 570 000 to share information.
The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.
