Mining activities in Vihiga County have been suspended with immediate effect by the County security team.
The team lead by the area County Commissioner Susan Waweru said the mining sites have become death traps.
She said miners have been buried alive in some of the mining sites across the County, noting it’s the main reason for the suspension of the mining activities in the region.
Waweru added that those that engage in mining do not have knowledge in occupational health and safety measures, which can be hazardous to their health.
“Mining activities in the County need to be regulated by a special committee that has to be gazetted to perform its duties,” she said.
The County Commissioner ordered the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to close those mining sites.
She said those who will defy the order and continue with the activities will be apprehended and arraigned in court.