A file photo of sand harvesters in Kibokoni, Malindi. [Photo/ the-star.co.ke]
Several sand harvesters were on Wednesday nabbed in Mombasa.County Executive for Lands, Agriculture and Environment Anthony Njaramba ordered harvesters in the county to immediately stop the illegal business, arguing that it causes soil erosion which in turn leads to flooding whenever it rains.The CeC spotted the sand harvesters during an inspection of flood-hit areas in Mshomoroni and Junda areas in Kisauni constituency, and ordered their immediate arrest.Three lorries loaded with sand were impounded.“Sand harvesting destroys the environment and whenever we experience heavy rains, we witness flooding and landslides,” said Njaramba.The CeC said the practice makes roads become narrow thus dangerous to drive on, adding that it also increases the chances buildings collapsing as it leaves the foundation exposed.He urged residents to report any cases of sand harvesting to the relevant authorities for action to be taken against the culprits.“Do not keep quiet as these harvesters are only concerned with making money and becoming rich. You are the ones who will suffer losses if they keep engaging in this illegal activity,” he said.He further cautioned residents against occupying houses built on waterways, as they are prone to floods or landslides.