Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has confirmed the death of a man who was electrocuted while attempting an illegal power connection along Sentema Road in Natete, Wakiso District.
The deceased, identified as Gerald Mutalya, was electrocuted at around 3:00 pm on Friday, September 12, 2025, after tampering with a 33kV feeder line from Mutundwe Substation.
According to UEDCL, Mutalya was a “Kamyufu” — a term used to describe unauthorized individuals who carry out illegal electricity connections. He was neither an employee of UEDCL nor affiliated with any of its licensed contractors.
Jonan Kiiza, the Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs at UEDCL, said the company deeply regrets the incident.
“Mutalya was not employed by UEDCL or any of our contracted companies. This unfortunate incident demonstrates the grave risks posed by illegal electricity connections, which endanger both the individuals involved and the wider community,” Kiiza said.
He added that investigations into the matter are ongoing and that a case has been registered at Natete Police Station.
UEDCL has once again warned the public against unauthorized access to its electricity distribution network.
“We continue to caution the public and all unauthorized people, known locally as ‘Kamyufus,’ against tampering with the distribution grid. Such actions not only put lives at risk but also destabilize power supply in affected areas,” Kiiza stressed.
The company advised members of the public to report safety incidents and electricity faults through its toll-free lines 0800203088, 0800285285, 0800385385, or via WhatsApp on 0772 285285.
UEDCL also extended condolences to the deceased’s family.
“We sympathize with the family of the departed. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Kiiza said.
