The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has dismissed claims that they have ordered police officers to check cars for plastic bags.
This is after reports circulated that officers were making random stops in conjunction with NEMA officials to check whether motorists are carrying plastic bags in their vehicles.
NEMA Communications Director Evans Nyabuto said the officers were just looking for cars with non-compliance to traffic rules.
"We have not issued an order of the inspection of cars by traffic police. Traffic police work under NTSA and KENHA," Nyabuto stated.
NEMA further clarified that they had not arrested anyone yet, adding that they will issue a statement regarding disposal of plastic bags later on.
The environment agency started an operation on Monday to ensure the plastic bag ban is being complied with countrywide.
NEMA noted that they had sent eight teams to kick start the operation in Nairobi, however, the full implementation of the ban will begin on Tuesday.
All manufacturers and importers are expected to declare all their remaining stock to NEMA for necessary action on Monday.
Consumers were urged to embrace eco-friendly substitutes to avoid attracting a fine of between Sh2 Million and Sh4 Million, or a jail term of between one and two years, or both.
Read More: NEMA Sends Out Officers to Ensure Plastic Bags Ban Compliance
