Three men have been arrested at Sultan Hamud Railway Station in Makueni County for allegedly siphoning fuel from stationary train wagons, authorities have confirmed, highlighting renewed concerns over fuel theft along Kenya’s rail network.
The suspects were arrested after members of the public alerted security agencies about suspicious activity at the station. Acting on the information, officers moved quickly to stop the operation before the fuel could be removed from the premises.
According to investigators, the suspects include a locomotive driver, a security guard, and a civilian accomplice. The theft occurred while the train was parked at the station awaiting a change of crew, creating an opportunity that the suspects allegedly exploited.
Officers from Kenya Railways and Port Police carried out a coordinated raid at the scene. During the operation, they recovered two 20-litre jerrycans and two 18-litre water dispenser bottles filled with petrol believed to have been siphoned from the train wagons.
The suspects were immediately escorted to Emali Railways Police Station, where they are being processed ahead of arraignment in court. Authorities say investigations are ongoing to establish whether more individuals may be linked to the incident.
In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations said the arrests demonstrate law enforcement’s firm stance against economic sabotage and theft targeting critical transport infrastructure.
The agency reiterated its call for public cooperation, noting that timely information from citizens played a key role in disrupting the theft. Police encouraged Kenyans to continue reporting crime through official and anonymous channels.
Security officials warned that fuel theft not only causes financial losses but also poses serious safety risks, including fire hazards and disruption of rail operations. They added that such crimes undermine efficiency in cargo transport and weaken confidence among investors who rely on rail freight services.
Kenya Railways has previously raised alarm over vandalism, pilferage, and interference with cargo along rail corridors. Authorities say heightened surveillance and collaboration with local communities remain central to efforts aimed at protecting railway assets and ensuring safe, reliable transport services.