The government has launched investigations in Hellu Ward, Moyale subcounty, in Marsabit County on the possibility of existence of explosives reportedly left behind by the colonial administration.
This follows the recovery of 23 live mortar bombs in the area after unknown people allegedly speculating about treasures dug and left open holes.
Marsabit County police commander Leonard Kimaiyo said that experts from the Kenya Defence Force (KDF) have been called in to help in detonating the 81mm bombs.
Mr Kimaiyo said that the explosives are believed to have been left behind by the colonialists many years ago, adding that investigations were underway to establish if there could be more weapons exposed by the speculators for retrieval and enhanced security.
The county police commander cautioned local residents against engaging in unregulated artisanal mining activities saying such explorations could pose security challenges.
He added that the area has been placed under surveillance and urged residents to report to the authorities on any mineral or treasure searching activities.
Reports indicate that locals believe that there were treasure materials buried in the area by the colonialists hence the speculative activities.
By Sebastian Miriti
