At least seven Chinese nationals were arrested on Wednesday during a police operation at an alleged illegal gold mining site in Sigor, West Pokot.
The Mining Police Unit, led by Unit Commander Fatuma Hadi, conducted the raid as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal mining activities.
Hadi confirmed the arrests and revealed that the suspects would be presented at the Kapenguria court before facing planned deportation.
“They are illegally operating a mining site in Sigor, West Pokot. We have intensified operations on the sites in the country to ensure we get proper returns. The sites must also be compliant, she said.
The Mining Police Unit has been inspecting various mining sites across the country to ensure compliance with industry regulations. Local leaders have been vocal about the need for proper documentation and adherence to the Mining Act.
Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong emphasized that commercial mining using machinery is prohibited without legal permits, although traditional methods of extraction are allowed for local communities.
Illegal mining activities have been linked to safety risks and environmental degradation. In Homa Bay, four miners were killed on February 10 after venturing into a 900-foot deep hole.
Similar incidents have prompted the government to strengthen oversight by forming the Mining Police Unit, tasked with ensuring safety standards at mining sites.
The government has also halted mining operations nationwide to allow the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to conduct environmental impact assessments.
Legal artisanal and small-scale mining contributed over Sh30 billion to Kenya’s economy in 2023, highlighting the sector’s potential if regulated properly.
