Interior CS Kithure Kindiki has ordered a countrywide crackdown on all mines as part of measures to enhance public safety.
The CS said government is prioritising preventive security strategies as opposed to corrective security interventions.
"I have ordered a nationwide crackdown on all mines and closure of those that pose a risk to miners and other residents," he said.
Kindiki on Wednesday visited Bumutiru gold mines in Butula sub county, Busia County.
He directed that an environmental, economic and social impact assessment be conducted.
The CS further said a report with recommendations should be submitted within 30 days to inform decisions on the mines.
"At the same time, all prospectors must apply for requisite licenses from the mines and geology department," he said.
The resumption of gold mining in Bumutiru has seen an influx of people from across the country and prospectors even from the neighbouring Uganda, Tanzanian and DRC.
The CS noted that this has posed a security challenge.
"We know there are people from the neighbouring countries who are working in these mines. We have no problem with our neighbouring countries, as long as those coming to work in our country follow the laid down procedures," he said.
Kindiki said he will deal with parents and national government officers who allow children to work in mine caves instead of being in school.
Dangerous mines have continued to claim lives of miners over the years with the recent incident being that of a 18-year-old boy in Siaya.
George Otieno Omondi died while working at a pebbles mine in Musere after stones collapsed and killed him.
