The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has arrested four people accused of impersonating environmental inspectors and extorting money from residents in Athi River, Machakos County.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 24, NEMA stated that the arrests were carried out on Thursday by officers from the Machakos County office working jointly with the NEMA Police Unit.
The operation followed intelligence reports from members of the public who said the fake inspectors had been moving around residential areas intimidating and extorting locals.
NEMA Arrests Four for Impersonating Inspectors, Extorting Athi River Residents. Photo: Courtesy.
Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects had posed as NEMA environmental inspectors and conducted illegal enforcement exercises, during which they allegedly demanded payments from residents under the guise of fines and compliance fees.
Their activities reportedly caused fear and confusion among locals who believed they were dealing with legitimate government officials.
Further investigations established that the four belong to a wider network of about eight individuals believed to be involved in similar schemes.
The suspects are currently being processed for arraignment at the Mavoko Law Courts as the probe continues to trace and apprehend the remaining members of the group.
NEMA has urged the public to remain vigilant and verify the identities of individuals claiming to be environmental inspectors.
The authority reminded residents that all genuine NEMA inspectors carry official cards with a QR code that can be scanned to confirm their authenticity and access their official details.
