The government has directed security agencies in Migori to undertake thorough investigations into a poisoning incident that has since led to the death of five cows.
At least six other animals are also said to have exhibited signs of poisoning from contaminated water allegedly discharged from a local mining plant in Nyatike.
In a statement, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho noted that the probe would help provide more insights into it.
"A thorough probe will establish any acts of criminality or negligence by the parties involved which will be a basis for administrative and legal action against those found culpable," Joho said.
According to the CS, his Ministry is keen and wholly committed on establishing all facts that led to this unfortunate incident.
This, as he emphasised that the company involved must compensate the owners for the loss of the animals.
Section 153 (1) of the Mining Act, 2016, he noted, demands fair, prompt and justified compensation for any loss, death or damage that might have been caused by actions or operations of a mineral right holder.
The probe, Joho stated, will be led by the county commissioner and will also involve other state agencies.
"Additionally, section 179 of the Act directs mineral rights holders to ensure that seepage of toxic waste and hazardous affluent is disposed in approved areas only and does not get into streams and other water sources," he stated.
The animals are said to consumed water from a river that suspected to be contaminated with sodium cyanide which is used in gold mining.
The incident comes only six months after six people were hospitalised after consuming spring water that was contaminated with poisonous chemicals believed to be syenite from one of the mining processing plants.
The contaminated spring also resulted in the loss of three cows and three goats from the poisonous water.
The county has over the recent years continued to witness a surge of miners.
