DRC government hands over confiscated boats

Authorities from the Democratic Republic of Congo have handed over boats belonging to Ugandan fishermen that were confiscated last week.

The Congolese Marine enforcement officers had confiscated the boats and nets for alleged illegal fishing on Lake Albert. They accuse the Ugandan fishermen for crossing to fish from the Congolese side without permission, hence depleting their fish resources

The Nebbi Resident District Commissioner, Bessie Alijong, said leaders from the two countries have agreed to harmonize relations of fishing on the Lake. She said the 10 boats and nets were handed over on Tuesday and no fine was levied.

The boats were confiscated near Dei landing site in Panyimur Sub-county igniting a standoff between Ugandan fishermen and Congolese traders entering Uganda to buy goods.

Written by David Kugonza