Nine Foreigners, Two Kenyans Arrested in Crackdown on Illegal Mining in Migori and Siaya

Eleven suspects  nine foreigners and two locals  have been arrested in a government-led operation targeting illegal mining activities in Migori and Siaya counties

In Siaya County, officers from the Mining Police Unit and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested two foreigners in the Yamo-Oloko area of Bondo Sub-County

The team, acting on orders from Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho, also seized three sealed cartons of gelignite explosives weighing 25 kilograms each, 72 explosive charges, and 137 pieces of shock tubes. The case involving the two suspects will be mentioned on December 22

In Migori County, another operation at Awovinar Property Ltd led to the arrest of seven foreigners and two locals found conducting mining without valid licenses, in contravention of Section 202(1) of the Mining Act, Cap 306. The seven foreigners have since been deported, while the two locals were released on bond as legal proceedings continue

Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining, warning that no individual or organization would be spared

“The gloves are off. We’re taking decisive action against illegal mining, and we won’t stop until the law is upheld,” said PS Kimtai. “Anyone found engaging in illicit mining activities will face the full force of the law, regardless of their status or influence”

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Kimtai emphasized that while mining remains a legitimate economic venture, it must operate within legal frameworks and under proper licensing to ensure regulatory compliance

He added that County Mining Officers have been deployed nationwide to enhance oversight and ensure the sector contributes meaningfully to Kenya’s economic growth