Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has ordered the closure of 13 mining sites within the Hillo area in Dabel, Marsabit County,
The Interior CS on Thursday declared the sites as ‘disturbed and dangerous.’
The evacuation will last for 30 days, starting today at 6.30 pm.
The affected areas are; Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Iress Abamartile, Hillo Gootu and Hillo Tessum Qalicha.
Others are Hillo Karray, Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee and Hillo Godde Haroressa.
"Pursuant to Section 8(1) of the Public Order Act, Cap 56 of the Laws of Kenya, and Section 106 (1) of the National Police Service Act, no person may be found present in the areas specified at any time without the written authority of the County Police Commander, Marsabit County," announced Kindiki.
The move follows a series of grave security breaches at the Dabel Artisanal Mining Sites, resulting in at least seven deaths.
Earlier this week, three individuals lost their lives, and eight were injured during clashes over the control of a gold mine.
The violence erupted after miners discovered a shallow grave containing the body of a missing colleague, leading to accusations and fatal retribution.
Police have since intervened, securing the area and ensuring the injured received medical attention.
The victims are reported to be in stable condition, while tensions remain high.
