By Naomi Langisi

Lilongwe, July 11, Mana: The Lilongwe city council has announced the prohibition of illegal sand mining in the city.

In a press release, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Macloud Kadam’manja stated that residents must obtain approval from the city council before engaging in any sand mining activities.

“Any person or vehicle found excavating and loading sand illegally within the city shall be guilty of an offense and liable to a fine or imprisonment according to environmental bylaws,” the statement reads.

Councils commenced a crackdown on illegal sand miners from July 9, 2024, confiscating excavated sand heaps found within the city premises without council approval.