KSEB links Nilambur boy's death to power theft, not negligence; Rs 41.14 cr fined in 2024–25

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has rejected media reports claiming that its officials were warned months in advance about electricity theft used to power a wild boar trap in Nilambur. It may be noted that the trap led to the death of a Class 10 student, who was electrocuted after stepping on a live wire while walking to a stream with friends. 

In a statement, KSEB said: “No such complaint was received at the KSEB Vazhikkadavu section office (the section concerned).” The board clarified it had not been informed earlier about the illegal trap powered by hooking into an overhead line.

The death of the boy triggered public outrage and political blame, especially with the Nilambur by-election approaching. Opposition parties accused KSEB of negligence, apparently prompting the board to issue a detailed explanation.

Remote terrain makes detection difficult, says KSEB

KSEB claims the trap was set up without any official sanction. "The mishap occurred due to electricity theft using a wire drawn from a power line connected to a wild boar trap. The location lies near a forest fringe and is a remote, hard-to-reach area, making access from outside difficult," it said. Such thefts usually take place at night, making it challenging for KSEB personnel, the communique noted.

Electricity theft

KSEB reiterated that electricity theft is a criminal offence. Under Section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003, violators can face disconnection, fines, and non-bailable charges, leading to imprisonment of up to three years.

The board added, “If the offender voluntarily admits guilt and pays the penalty, legal action may be waived. However, this concession is granted only once.”

The public can report electricity thefts at KSEB section offices, the Anti-Power Theft Squad's headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, or respective district offices during working hours. They may also call the emergency number 9496010101 or send a WhatsApp message.

Informants are encouraged to include accurate location details and section office names. All personal details will be kept strictly confidential. Additionally, informants are eligible for a reward.

Anti-theft squad detects nearly 300 cases in just two months

The KSEB Anti-Power Theft Squad carried out 31,213 inspections in the last financial year, uncovering 4,252 misuse cases and 288 theft cases, imposing fines totalling Rs 41.14 crore. One person faced criminal prosecution for non-payment of penalties.

In April and May 2025 alone, 4,149 inspections revealed 779 misuse cases and 30 confirmed thefts, resulting in fines of Rs 9.38 crore.