Police have arrested three individuals suspected of siphoning fuel from train wagons at Sultan Hamud Railway Station in Makueni County, following a coordinated operation prompted by a public alert.
The suspects were reportedly caught in the act after a tip-off from members of the public alerted law enforcement to the suspected activity.
Kenya Railways officials and Port Police responded swiftly, raiding the scene and disrupting the operation before the trio could escape or dispose of the fuel.
During the operation, police seized two 20-litre jerrycans and two 18-litre water dispenser bottles containing petrol believed to have been siphoned directly from train wagons.
Investigators said the suspects appeared to have taken advantage of a window of opportunity while the locomotive was stationed at Sultan Hamud awaiting a replacement driver.
The three individuals were escorted to Emali Railways Police Station for further processing and are expected to be arraigned once investigations are concluded.
Authorities said further details, including the intended destination of the fuel and whether the suspects are linked to a wider network, will form part of ongoing investigations.
Fuel theft along transport corridors and industrial facilities has been cited as a growing concern for law enforcement agencies, given its links to organised crime and economic sabotage.
Police officials warned that such activities not only result in revenue losses but also pose significant safety risks.
In a statement, the National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to combating fuel theft and other forms of economic crime, noting that collaboration between the public and security agencies was instrumental in the operation.
“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 read in part.
Kenya Railways has previously raised concerns over incidents of vandalism, pilferage, and tampering with cargo, which undermine transport efficiency and erode investor confidence in rail freight.
The arrests have renewed focus on security lapses within the transport sector, particularly amid indications that two of the individuals arrested were directly linked to operations at the station.
Police said the suspects will face charges once the case file is completed.
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