Joho Unveils New Investigative Arm to Tackle illegal mining.
The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs has launched an investigative arm in the Mining Police Unit (MPU) to fight against illegal resource exploitation and mining of minerals across the country and ensure compliance within the sector.
This initiative underscores Kenya’s resolve to promote sustainable development and uphold justice in its resource management sector.
“We have a new commander commissioner of police Fatuma Ali, she has been the DCIO Kilimani. Anybody who will destroy the economy is no different from a robbery with violence criminals,” said the CS.
Speaking during the launch, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho has emphasized on the government’s commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s natural resources for current and future generations.
He announced that there is a team in place that enables the industry to offer support as far as the industries adhere to regulations such as paying royalties on time and working collaboratively with local communities and county governments.
“When minerals are stolen, they are gone for good. I want to ensure that we have teams in place to ensure the law is followed. I also want to assure players in the industry that the ministry is here to offer support as long as you do the right thing,” he stated.
Additionally, he urged industries to work closely with county governments and pay them their rightful dues, firms to work closely with county government and pay royalties as well as involve community where they are entitled to a 1 percent gross income allocation that enables them to be empowered and decide on developmental priorities they want to do with their resources.
Joho stated that the government has issued a stern warning to those engaging in illegal activities including resource theft.
“If you think you are too smart and want to steal our minerals, know that we will follow you wherever you go. With the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on board, we now have the capacity to enforce justice, even beyond our borders, we are watching,” he declared.
