Security authorities in Hoima have launched an inquiry into the activities of fisheries law enforcement officials on Lake Albert.
The inquiry stems from reports that the fisheries law enforcement officers have been extorting money from the fish dealers.
Hoima Deputy RDC Abdul Swamad Wantimba, says his office has received several complaints from fishermen claiming the fisheries enforcement team is extorting money from them. Groups of fishermen from Ssebigoro, Nkondo, Waiga and Kaiso landing sites had approached him seeking his intervention in the matter.
The Deputy RDC says the fishermen have sought an explanation as to why they are charged 40,000 shillings.
Wantimba says the District Internal Security officer, Patrick Kachope has been sent to the landing sites to establish the concerns raised by the fishermen.
A report will be produced soon after investigations and the RDC’s office will take action basing on the findings, Watimba explains.
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Vincent Opio, the Kabwoya district councilor claims in addition to money extortion, the fisheries law enforcement officials are harsh to the fishermen and have often beaten up fishermen who are not ready to pay up the money demanded.
Opio wondered why the minister of fisheries Ruth Nankabirwa had not taken action against the officials despite the fact that this matter was brought to her attention.
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