Ministry’s Mining Police Unit to probe illicit explorations
By KNA, January 10, 2025
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.
Speaking during the launch, Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho emphasised the government’s commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s natural resources for current and future generations.
“We have a new commander, Commissioner of Police Fatuma Ali. She has been the Deputy Criminal Investigation Officer (DCIO) Kilimani. Anybody who will destroy the economy is no different from robbery with violence criminals,” said CS Hassan Joho.
Joho announced that there is a team in place that enables the ministry to offer support so long as players in the industry adhere to regulations such as paying royalties on time.
Additionally, he urged industries to work closely with county governments and pay them their rightful dues as well as involve the community where they are entitled to a one per cent gross income. This allocation, he noted, enables them to be empowered and decide on developmental priorities they want to do with their resources.
“With the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on board, we now have the capacity to enforce justice, even beyond our borders; we are watching,” the CS declared.