A trader in Makindu town has been arrested for selling banned plastic flat bags, marking the latest action in an ongoing crackdown by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) on environmental law violators. The arrest took place on Wednesday, following a joint operation between NEMA officers and local police.
Boniface Wanga, an enforcement officer with NEMA, confirmed the trader’s capture, stating that the suspect was found in possession of 63 bundles of the prohibited plastic bags, each bundle containing approximately 120 pieces. These bags, which have been banned in Kenya due to their environmental impact, are often used for packaging but pose a significant threat to the environment, particularly in terms of waste management and pollution.
Wanga further highlighted that the trader was actively selling these banned bags to members of the public. This illegal sale is a violation of Kenya’s stringent regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting a cleaner, healthier environment. The arrest was part of a broader initiative by NEMA to curb the illegal trade in plastic bags, with the suspect currently being held at the Makindu Police Station and expected to be presented in court today.
NEMA has consistently warned the public against using or trading in banned plastic bags, emphasizing that offenders face prosecution. This latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and maintaining the country’s efforts toward reducing plastic pollution.
In addition to targeting plastic bag traders, Wanga revealed that the ongoing operation would also focus on other environmental offenders. The authorities will extend their crackdown to developers, hotels, petrol stations, and slaughterhouses that are operating without the necessary effluent discharge licenses issued by NEMA.
The crackdown, which aims to ensure better environmental compliance, is expected to spread to other sub-counties in the region. Public awareness and cooperation are being urged to help curb the harmful effects of illegal environmental practices and support sustainable development in Kenya.
