The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has launched a nationwide crackdown on factories secretly producing banned polythene bags, warning of heavy penalties for those found flouting the law.

In a statement, the Authority said the operation follows reports that some companies have continued manufacturing the outlawed bags despite the ban.

“Inspectors from NEMA have carried out operations in several facilities suspected of manufacturing banned polythene bags. NEMA will continue surveillance to eradicate illegal production and ensure that offenders are prosecuted,” the agency said.

Manufacturers caught in the act face fines of up to Sh4 million or imprisonment for up to two years under the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act.

The law also prescribes penalties for anyone found in possession or using the plastic bags, including fines ranging from Sh2 million to Sh4 million or jail terms of one to two years.

NEMA urged the public to support its enforcement drive by reporting cases of illegal production or distribution of the banned bags. Reports can be made via phone on 0741 101 100 or 0786 101 100, or by email at incidence@nema.go.ke.

The crackdown comes eight years after the government banned the use, manufacture and importation of plastic carrier bags, citing their serious impact on health and the environment.

Authorities pointed to clogged drainage systems, livestock deaths caused by ingesting plastics, and toxic emissions released when the bags are burned as reasons behind the ban.

Following its enforcement role, NEMA has in the past closed more than 170 factories that had been engaged in illegal polythene production.

The agency has also carried out numerous arrests and prosecutions to curb the manufacture, import, and use of plastic bags across the country.

“It is notified to the public that the CS Environment and Natural Resources have, with effect from six months from the date of this notice, banned the use, manufacture, and importation of plastic bags for commercial and household packaging,” the Authority said, reaffirming its commitment to eliminate the practice.

The announcement comes months after NEMA dismissed claims that it planned to introduce a Sh100 million fine for those engaged in the manufacture, importation, sale, or use of plastic carrier bags.