High Court Advocate Willis Otieno announced that the court has declared Shanta Mining’s prospecting licence for the Ramula area unconstitutional, null and void.

Speaking at a prayer and thanksgiving ceremony in Ramula, Otieno explained that the licence was issued without complying with constitutional requirements, including the need for informed consent from private landowners and local residents.

He warned that any attempt by Shanta or the Ministry of Interior to evict residents illegally will be met with legal action, noting that the court has already halted forceful evictions.

Otieno said contempt of court applications will be filed against the Inspector General of Police, the Sub‑County Commander, the local Officer Commanding Station and Shanta directors if they continue to coerce residents to vacate the land.

He emphasized that the land belongs exclusively to registered private owners, who may surrender it only voluntarily and without threats, coercion or force.

Former area MCA Samuel Sigur, the first petitioner, praised the legal intervention, saying the community now feels protected after years of harassment and threats of forced eviction.

Charlde Omondi, chairman of the East Gem Bamboo Artisanal Miners Cooperative, accused Shanta Gold of defying the court order and continuing to intimidate artisanal miners and landowners.

Omondi warned that the community will return to court if harassment persists, alleging the company obtained fraudulent consents for the licence.