By Leilah Bbaale
The Uganda People`s Defense Forces UPDF’s Fish Protection unit –FPU together with Buliisa District leadership on Wednesday returned confiscated fishing gears to Congolese fishermen which had been impounded on the Lake Albert waters recently.
In May this year, UPDF`s Fish Protection Unit confiscated over 31 engines and 28 boats from Uganda`s Lake Albert belonging to the Congolese fishermen at the landing sites of Oridhe, Aji, Shaka and Ubongwa Landing site in DR Congo.
The handover function was spearheaded by Buliisa Residential District Commissioner (RDC) Longino Bahebwa Byagagaire at Butiaba landing site FPU Detach.
Maj. Frank Kanzira the head of operations at FPU at Butiaba detach cautioned fishermen from Congo to desist from being involved in illegal fishing that will lead them into trouble.
Asaba K Musa Awera the Butiaba town council Mayor asked for harmonized laws to be applied to both countries so that conflicts won’t arise which is seriously affecting the poor fishermen.
Robert Mugume, thedistrict councilor representing Butiaba town council also prayed for laws that govern the two countries so that issues are harmonized.
While receiving the confiscated items on behalf of the Congolese government, Hon. Robert Agenonga the Mahagi Member of Parliament in Ituri Province, DR. Congo appreciated and welcomed the collaboration between the two government saying this will help to solve and improve of the livelihood of fishermen in the two countries.
