This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
On July 4, 2019, a sting operation by police and officials of the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) in Bungoma County led to the arrest of a man suspected to be mentally ill.
The suspect, identified as Shikuku, was found with Sh250,000 cash and a consignment of banned polythene bags.
According to Kimilili Sub-County Deputy Commissioner Joyce Onguzo, Shikuku was apprehended during a sting operation on Thursday and is currently in custody.
Residents of the area claimed that Shikuku pretended to be mentally ill to avoid punishment, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the truth behind the allegations.
Nema's Bungoma County Director Rob Kipkoech stated that the agency involved police in the operation due to a previous incident where a team was attacked by a group of youths.
Similar operations will take place in major urban centers to ensure the ban on polythene bags, announced on August 28, 2018, is fully implemented.
