Kenya Power meter reader killed in brutal Isiolo attack
A Kenya Power meter reader died after he was violently attacked while on duty in Isiolo County, in an incident that has once again raised concern over rising attacks on utility workers in the country.
The victim, identified as 37-year-old Shadrack Makembu, was attacked on the morning of April 9, 2026 in the Chechelesi area while carrying out routine meter reading duties for Kenya Power and Lighting Company.
According to police and company officials, Makembu had visited a residential compound when he was confronted by a tenant.
A confrontation ensued, during which the tenant allegedly stabbed him in the chest, neck and left hand using a sword before fleeing the scene. The weapon was reportedly left behind.
He was rushed to hospital in critical condition before being airlifted to Nairobi by AMREF Flying Doctors for emergency treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital. However, he succumbed to his injuries as the aircraft landed at Wilson Airport in Nairobi.
Medical personnel on board pronounced him dead upon arrival. His body was later transferred to Montezuma Monalisa Funeral Home, where it awaits a postmortem examination.
Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing, with officers visiting the scene and interviewing tenants in an effort to establish what triggered the fatal confrontation and to trace the suspect, who remains at large.
Kenya Power condemned the killing, describing it as part of a troubling pattern of attacks targeting its employees while they carry out official duties.
“While the matter has been reported to the authorities, we wish to note that this is sadly not an isolated incident. Some of our employees have previously been attacked while carrying out their duties. Such criminal acts are unacceptable and undermine service delivery to our customers,” the company said in a statement.
The utility firm also urged members of the public to support its staff as they deliver services across the country.
