Kathiani Sub-County residents have been warned against engaging themselves in illegal sand harvesting which has become rampant in the area.
Speaking on Thursday at Mitaboni trading centre, Kathiani Deputy County Commissioner Geoffrey Omoding said the business which thrives in Machakos County was a big threat to environment and should be stopped forthwith.
Omoding cited the recent collapse of the Kathiani Bridge as one of the effects of illegal sand harvesters, warning that the government will not tolerate those who are out to destroy the area’s waterways.
“Sand harvesting is a serious threat to our environment and should be stopped. Anyone found carrying out this business will face the full force of the law as deterrence to others,” said Omoding.
The commissioner said the government was doing everything in its power to ensure illegal harvesting of sand is eradicated in the area, by slapping heavy penalties on the culprits.
He cited a case in 2015 where the owners of two lorries which were nabbed ferrying sand from Mitaboni area were fined Sh 1 million each by a local court.
“This should therefore be a warning to all that the government is taking this matter seriously, since it is the only way we can be able to safeguard our environment and water sources,” said Omoding.
He however hailed the residents for their support in maintaining law and order and urged them to continue cooperating with security agents to improve security in the area