Principal Secretary for Mining, Harry Kimtai, has issued a stern warning against any form of interference with the planned resettlement of residents in the proposed mining areas of Ramula and Mwibona villages in Siaya County and Vihiga County respectively.
The warning comes after the police’s violent confrontation with unruly youths opposing the project which resulted in at least 57 families being displaced after their homes were set on fire.
The violence, which broke out on Monday, also led to the shooting of two youths who reportedly broke into Ramula Police Station and vandalized the property including vehicles.
Kimtai called the attacks a form of economic sabotage and emphasized that the government will not allow the disruption of the investment, which is not only legal but also beneficial.
Furthermore, he accused the project opponents of using misinformation against the project to raise resistance among the people.
The government granted Shanta Gold Limited Kenya the go-ahead to engage in gold mining last November and the company is expected to start operations by June this year.
The company plans to relocate about 1,800 households, with at least 400 already onboarded as negotiations continue with the remaining residents.