Fishermen operating along Lake Albert in Pakwach District have accused Fisheries Protection Unit officers of engaging in corruption and extortion during ongoing enforcement operations on the lake. The allegations were raised during a community meeting with the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding, held in Dei Sub-county on Tuesday, April 5, 2026.
Some fishermen claimed that boat operators have been paying between 200,000 and 400,000 Shillings weekly to continue operating, despite the ongoing enforcement of fishing regulations. Tonny Wathum Ujanga alleged that such payments have become routine at several landing sites, with fishermen viewing them as the only way to continue earning a living.
He further argued that the charges were relatively lower compared to similar costs allegedly imposed across the border in the Democratic Republic of the Congo side of the lake. Another fisherman, Wilberforce Odaru, said the payments have become normalised within fishing communities, creating what he described as a blurred line between law enforcement and survival economics.
The allegations come amid continued government operations aimed at enforcing fisheries regulations on Lake Albert and other water bodies across the country. However, the claims have raised concerns over possible abuse of authority during enforcement exercises.
In response, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding condemned any form of corruption and warned both security personnel and members of the public against engaging in such practices. He emphasised the need for lawful enforcement of fisheries guidelines while urging communities to comply with government regulations aimed at restoring order in the sector.
Authorities say investigations into the allegations may follow as the government continues to tighten enforcement on illegal fishing activities across Lake Albert-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
