West pokot: A multi-agency security operation in collaboration with the West Pokot Mining Officers successfully cracked down on illegal mining activities in the Krich area of Endough ward, West Pokot sub-county, on Thursday. During the operation, two individuals, Maslah Mohammed and Abdullahi Osman, were arrested for engaging in illegal gold mining.

According to Kenya News Agency, two excavators were also impounded at the site, a generator, and soil samples were taken as exhibits. West Pokot acting Sub-County Police Commander Njoroge Muturi disclosed that the crackdown was prompted by public reports indicating ongoing illegal mining despite a ban issued earlier last month.

Muturi emphasised that all large-scale gold mining activities are currently banned until further notice from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. He urged miners to adhere to the regulations and warned that further illegal activities would not be tolerated, focusing on environmental protection and lawful conduct in mining practices.

Kapenguria Division Assistant County Commissioner Emily Ogola clarified that the ban applies specifically to large-scale mining using excavators, while artisanal mining by local communities remains permitted under regulation. In his remarks, Mining Officer Brian Bundy stressed the importance of compliance with the Mining Act Cap 306, which prohibits unlicensed mining operations.

Bundy confirmed that no licensed companies were authorised to operate in West Pokot, and illegal activities were subject to legal penalties. The multi-agency team confirmed the operation was conducted smoothly and concluded at 17:00 hours without incident. The suspects have been booked at Kapenguria police station and are awaiting arraignment in court.