CS Joho Launches a New Investigative Unit to Crack Down Illegal Mining

NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs has taken a step to combat illegal mineral exploration and mining in Kenya.

In a move to safeguard the nation’s resources, Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho announced the launch of an investigative arm within the Mining Police Unit.

The newly appointed commander of this unit, Commissioner of Police Fatuma Ali, formerly the DCIO of Kilimani, will spearhead efforts to clamp down on illicit mining activities.

“We have a new commander, Commissioner of Police Fatuma Ali. Anyone who destroys the economy is no different from a robbery with violence criminal,” Joho emphasized during the launch on Wednesday.

Joho underscored the importance of preserving the country’s mineral wealth for both current and future generations.

“When minerals are stolen, they are gone for good. I want to ensure we have teams in place to ensure the law is followed. I also want to assure players in the industry that the ministry is here to offer support as long as you do the right thing,” he stated.

He called on mining companies to engage closely with local communities, pay rightful dues, and collaborate with county governments to ensure proper royalties are paid.

“If you do that, you get a proper license and we will support you to grow. But if you think you are too smart and want to steal our minerals, we will arrest you on the ground and, if not, we will pursue you wherever you go,” Joho warned.

He further vowed to track down offenders even if they flee the country.

The government estimates that Kenya loses billions of shillings annually due to the smuggling of minerals, often by foreign entities.

The deployment of a special police unit in April last year was a preliminary step to tackle the widespread illegal mining.

Now, with the investigative arm in place, the Ministry aims to enforce stricter compliance with the Mining Act of 2016, which imposes penalties of up to Sh10 million or a two-year jail term—or both—on violators.

The Mining Police Unit operates under the command of the Inspectorate of Mines and is tasked with pursuing miners, prospectors, and dealers who flout industry regulations.