Kenya shut down mining sites in Marsabit County

The government of Kenya has ordered closure of 13 artisanal mining sites in Marsabit County. Ministry of Interior and National Administration issued the order citing insecurity in the region.

The recent violence and criminal activities associated with the artisanal mining sites, including drug trade and gang rivalries resulting in fatalities, highlight the urgent need for intervention. By invoking relevant legal provisions, such as the Public Order Act and the National Police Service Act, the authorities aim to assert control over the affected areas and prevent unauthorized access.

Affected areas

The affected sites include; Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Wakite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irres Abamartille, Hillo Gootu, HilloTessum Qalicha, Hillo Karray Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee and Hillo Godde Haroressa. The sites will not be operational in the next one month subject to review, modification, or extension as deemed necessary by the Interior Cabinet Secretary.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 106(l) of the National Police Service Act, 2011, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, in consultation with the National Security Council, declares 13 areas of Marsabit County as disturbed and dangerous areas. Pursuant to Section 8(1) of the Public Order Act, Cap 56 of the Laws of Kenya, and Section 106(1) of the National Police Service Act, no person may be found present in the areas specified in the Gazette Notice at any time without the written authority of the County Police Commander, Marsabit County,” said Cabinet Secretary Interior and National Administration Kithure Kindiki.