By standard Team
Six Kenyan fishermen arrested for allegedly fishing in the Ugandan waters of Lake Victoria will be moved to Bugiri prisons.
Among the six are three brothers who were arrested on Sunday night after their boat anchored on Migingo Island following a storm.
Boat owner, Ochieng’ Siro, who is the elder brother of the three, said the security officers confiscated fish worth Sh12, 000 and detained the siblings for allegedly fishing in Ugandan waters.
"We were destined to anchor in Lwanda beach but because of the strong tide and heavy storm we opted to land at Migingo and that is where the problem started," he said.
He claimed the Uganda security officers were demanding Sh5, 000 before the fishermen could be released.
The other three fishermen arrested are from Muhuru Bay and the Ugandan authority may charge them in Bugiri court in Uganda.
Nyatike OCPD, Samwel Anampiu confirmed that he is aware of the matter and that negotiations are ongoing with the Uganda counterpart.
"I have been informed of the matter and we have started negotiations. I hope we will resolve it amicably," he said.
But chairman of Beach Management Unit, Juma Ombori, expressed concern over continued harassment of fishermen by Uganda security.
"Survey of the lake is ongoing, why is it that our fishermen continue to be harassed and detained by the Ugandans?" he posed.
Nyatike MP, Omondi Anyanga, called for unconditional release of the fishermen.
Mr Anyanga said the arrest was in bad faith and would negate the spirit of regional integration.
