The government has put on notice illegal miners in Kwale following frequent conflicts with the genuine ones.
Regional Geologist, Sarah Bungei attributed the disputes to unqualified mineral prospecting.
"Unscrupulous prospectors have been interfering with existing genuine mining companies which are authorized by the government which in turn leads to disputes," said Bungei.
Speaking on Thursday to small and large-scale miners from Kuranze mining zone in Kinango sub-county, Bungei asked mineral prospectors to work ethically and always consult the department of mining and geology before starting their work for consent and expert guidance to avert further conflicts.
“Established miners and newcomers in the industry are disputing day by day because of encroachment on existing mining claims caused by informal surveying which must stop immediately,” she said.
Bungei urged prospectors to liaise with her office to get the right Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates and reference points when doing their work on the ground to avert interference with existing claim locations and needless disputes.
"When prospecting goes wrong people end up staking mining claims on others’ mines hence sparking clashes. Adherence to professionalism is mandatory and the government will not tolerate the unethical and casual way in which the prospectors have been operating,” she said.
Puma Ward Rep James Dawa said conflicts among local miners were causing security concern in the area and must be addressed as a matter of urgency.
“I urge miners to follow the law and to consult the relevant offices for advice to avoid conflicts,” said Dawa.
According to Joshua Muli, a miner their businesses suffer a lot due to the never-ending infighting over mining rights.
“Kuranze is so rich in minerals but it is difficult to tap its full potential because of protracted wrangles among the miners," he said.