Isinga Location chief has warned residents against harvesting sand along roads in the area.
Speaking to local journalists in Isinga on Thursday, Chief Bethwel King'ele said the activity has led to destruction of roads in the area.
The chief said sand harvesting had become a menace in Matungulu Sub-County, with majority of residents engaging in the activity being the less educated youth.
"Most of them harvest the sand at night and sell it at throw away prices to construction sites in big towns. They harvest the sand carelessly not putting in mind the destruction they are causing to the environment especially to rivers and roads," said King'ele.
King'ele called upon the police department in the area to intervene and curb the business by conducting night patrols.
"Anyone found harvesting sand in the prohibited areas, especially roadsides, should face tough consequences,” added King'ele.
The chief however said that people engage in such activities in a bid to earn a living due to lack of proper employment opportunities.
He therefore urged the Machakos County government to create employment opportunities by initiating more projects in the county.
The chief also called upon the county government to employ Machakos residents first before considering 'outsiders'.