Nine people were on Saturday arrested for allegedly being in possession of the banned plastic bags.
According to NEMA official Zephaniah Ouma, 4 people were arrested at Keroka and 5 others in Kisii town.
Ouma said despite the government’s declaration that the use of plastic bags is illegal still several people in Kisii region are using the bags.
“It is worrying that people do not want to change from using the illegal bags. The suspects will be arraigned in court on Monday to be charged and this will send a warning to those still using the bags,” said Ouma.
He challenged traders to pack goods for their customers using the recommended carrier bags to avoid being on the wrong side of the law.
NEMA director Tom Togo said the agency will not stop the crackdown until the use of plastic bags ends in the region.
“The crackdown on illegal plastic bags will continue until locals realize that the government won’t bend its laws. We must all protect the environment we are living in by adhering to the set environmental laws,” Togo said.
Togo called on residents to stop using the bags because if found they will be jailed or be fined heavily.
“Anyone found being in possession of the banned bags will be jailed or be fined a fine of not less than Sh2 million. It is advisable for traders and residents to follow the rules to avoid being sent to jail or fined,” he added.
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