KIGOMA: KIGOMA Regional Commissioner, Ambassador Simon Sirro, has issued a strong warning to individuals involved in the theft of fishing gear on Lake Tanganyika, saying the government has begun taking firm measures to curb the growing problem.
Speaking to residents and fishermen at the Lubengera Landing Site in Uvinza District, Ambassador Sirro said the government has launched a coordinated crackdown targeting criminal groups operating on the lake.
He explained that joint patrols involving the Police Marine Unit, the navy, and other security agencies will be intensified along the lake’s shoreline.
The Uvinza District Council will also support the initiative by deploying boats to boost security and safeguard fishing operations.
Ambassador Sirro assured fishermen that the government will take decisive action against all perpetrators and urged parents to ensure their children do not engage in criminal activities.
ALSO READ: Kabwe’s party pledges to abolish the fishing license system, calling it oppressive
“Those caught will face the full force of the law,” he warned.
Earlier, Uvinza District Commissioner Dinnah Mathamani noted that the Lubengera Landing Site has been among the areas most affected by theft, but measures were underway to restore safety and stability.
One of the fishermen affected by the incidents, Yahaya Seleman, said he believed some of the thefts were carried out by individuals from a neighbouring country working in collaboration with some criminals in Tanzanians.
He added that the continued loss of fishing gears has caused loss on local fishermen.
