This archive report was first published on 18 August 2019.
On August 16, 2019, NEMA officials, in collaboration with the Nairobi County government, arrested 12 individuals for air pollution in the Donholm area.
According to Lawrence Mwangi, the Acting Director of Environment at the Nairobi County government, the arrests were made after receiving complaints from residents of Buruburu and Donholm regarding frequent air pollution in the area.
"We have been here several times, but today we decided to take action and arrest several individuals. We have arrested 12 people and they will be charged with various offenses, including burning hazardous waste and operating a business without a license," Mwangi said.
NEMA Nairobi Regional Director Njoki Mukiri also noted that areas such as Kamkunji, Likoni, and Lunga Lunga are also affected by air pollution.
"We have put out a notice in the gazette prohibiting the use of hazardous waste, and what is currently happening is not allowed because these gases are hazardous to health," Mukiri said.
The suspects have been taken to City Hall and are expected to appear in court on Monday.
