NEMA arrests 17 traders in Makueni for environmental violations, including use of banned plastic bags
The four-day operation was carried out across five towns, including Wote, Tawa, Makindu, Kibwezi and Kathonzweni, targeting establishments operating without adherence to set environmental requirements.
A total of 17 business proprietors have been arrested in Makueni County by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) officers and environmental police for breaching environmental regulations.
In a statement on Sunday, the Authority said the enforcement action was prompted by violations including failure to conduct environmental audits, lack of effluent discharge licences (EDL) and use of banned plastic bags.
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The four-day operation was carried out across five towns, including Wote, Tawa, Makindu, Kibwezi and Kathonzweni, targeting establishments operating without adherence to set environmental requirements.
“NEMA Kenya environmental officers and NEMA police have arrested 17 proprietors for operating their establishments without environmental audits, effluent discharge licence (EDL) and use of banned plastic bags,” the authority said.
NEMA has said the recent crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with national environmental standards.
The authority confirmed that out of the 17 people arrested, two have already been charged at the Makueni Law Courts, with the rest expected to face similar legal action once investigations are complete.
This operation is part of NEMA’s wider national strategy to curb environmental pollution and enforce regulations aimed at protecting Kenya’s natural ecosystems.
The agency has repeatedly warned that non-compliance with environmental laws will not be tolerated. It also reaffirmed that the ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of plastic bags remains fully in effect, urging businesses to adopt lawful alternatives.
The reminder comes amid a rise in the illegal use of flimsy, clear flat plastic bags among small-scale traders, a trend NEMA has described as deeply concerning.
Kenya banned plastic bags in 2017, targeting both household and commercial packaging, including garbage bags and bin liners.
The landmark regulation, led by NEMA, prohibits the use, manufacture, and importation of plastic bags. Offenders face penalties of up to Sh4 million or imprisonment for up to four years.
Businesses and individuals are encouraged to use biodegradable garbage bags or switch to alternatives such as paper, cloth, or reusable shopping bags.
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