SERERE: Former LC V Serere District Joseph Opit Okojo, who is also an aspirant in Pingire County, has called on the government to stop arresting fishermen with illegal fishing gear and taking them to Kampala for prosecution.
Instead, Opit suggests that these cases should be handled in local courts in Serere or Soroti.
Opit made this suggestion at a burial ceremony in Aarapo village, Pingire Sub-County, Serere District, where the late Naume Adono, also known as Cheet Aulo, was laid to rest at the age of 97 years.
According to Opit, over ten fishermen from Serere have been arrested and taken to Kampala, putting their lives in danger and creating financial strain for their relatives who must travel to the capital to follow up on their cases.
The residents of Serere have also expressed concern over the government’s decision to transport arrested fishermen to Kampala, when there is a functioning court of law in Serere.
They are calling on the government to provide an explanation for this practice and to consider prosecuting these cases locally to ensure the safety and well-being of the accused individuals.
As the debate continues, fishermen in Serere District are hopeful that their voices will be heard and that their concerns regarding the handling of illegal fishing cases will be addressed.
