Dabel artisanal mining sites in Marsabit closed, gazetted as dangerous » Capital News
NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 14 – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has ordered the closure of 13 mining sites in Marsabit and gazetted them as dangerous and disturbed.
The move follows recent clashes between rival gangs of miners within Golbo Division’s Dabel Artisanal Mining Sites, that have claimed seven lives, including two foreign nationals.
The directive, which took effect on Thursday, will be enforced for a period of 30 days.
It may be 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,” read a Gazette Notice No. 3032.
The affected areas are Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irress Abamartille, Hillo Gootu, Hillo Tessum Qalicha, Hillo Karray, Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee and Hillo Godde Haroressa.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration disclosed that cases of rape, defilement, and gender-based violence involving miners have also been booked.
Kindiki warned that anyone found at the mining sites without permission will face the law.
“Further, pursuant to Section 8(1) of the Public Order Act, no person may be found present in the afore specified areas at any time from the date hereof without written authority from the County Police Commander of Marsabit County,” he emphasized.