UMEME launches operation to catch itself
By Jeremiah Kaniampiha
Power distributor Umeme has launched countrywide operations against suspected electricity thieves. This follows a rise in energy losses from 16.4% in 2019 to 17.5% in 2020.
The increase is attributed to the suspension of drives against illegal connections following the Government-imposed lockdown in March through June 2020 to check COVID-19.
Now that the restrictions are eased, Umeme, working with Uganda Police, has resumed the operations dubbed ‘Komboa’ to curb power theft.
Speaking during the launch of Komboa at the Umeme Mutundwe Sub-station, Peter Kaujju, the Head of Communications at Umeme explained that ‘Komboa’ is swahili for ‘Redeem’.
The operation has kicked off in all corners of Kampala to remove the illegal connections and once Kampala is “cleaned up” Kaujju added, the operation will continue to other parts of the country.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Ashraf Chemonges, who represented the Inspector General of Police at the launch, said the Uganda Police Force has set up an Economic Crimes Desk which will be responsible for cases related to power theft and illegal connections.
You should know that it is not the first time; UMEME is doing it. The very people who go for the operation know the culprits, but they are just putting a shadow operation. Look at this: