Several landlords and property caretakers have been arrested in Machakos County during a crackdown on the illegal discharge of untreated sewage and wastewater.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

The arrests conducted on Tuesday, September 1, followed an impromptu enforcement operation conducted in Syokimau, Mavoko Constituency, by officials from the Machakos County Department of Lands and Housing.

Those arrested were handed over to prosecutors for further legal action as the county intensified enforcement of public health, environmental and planning regulations.

The county government warned landlords and other property owners to ensure their premises have proper sewerage and drainage systems and comply with existing regulations.

📌 What You Need to Know

“Protecting public health and the environment remains a priority as Machakos County strengthens preparedness ahead of the predicted El Niño rains,” the county government said.

Officials said the illegal discharge of untreated sewage and wastewater poses serious health and environmental risks to residents, particularly with heavy rains expected in the coming weeks.

Th e enforcement operation is part of measures being implemented by the county to minimise the risk of sewage spillovers, flooding, environmental pollution and disease outbreaks during the rainy season.

The county further warned property owners and developers that failure to comply with the relevant regulations could result in legal action.

The latest crackdown comes as the country prepares for the anticipated El Niño rains, which are expected to increase the risk of flash floods, particularly in vulnerable low-lying and densely populated areas.

This also comes just hours after the Ministry of Interior urged Kenyans living in high-risk areas to prepare for possible evacuation and move to safer grounds when directed.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke