Seven people, including three local government and security officials, have been arrested in Pakwach District over allegations of extortion and facilitating illegal fishing on Lake Albert.
The suspects were arrested on Monday during a joint intelligence-led operation in Dei Sub-county following complaints from residents about alleged systematic extortion by officials involved in enforcing fisheries regulations.
Those arrested include the Gombolola Internal Security Officer for Dei, the Officer in Charge of Dei Police Station, a district councillor, a fisheries officer and three residents.
Pakwach Resident District Commissioner Stephen Nsubuga Bewayo said residents had for months reported that fishermen were being asked to pay money in exchange for permission to engage in illegal fishing.
Security officers reportedly recovered Shs800,000 from the suspects. The money was allegedly being collected on behalf of a fisheries sector commander in exchange for allowing illegal fishing activities.
The RDC also said residents were allegedly being charged between Shs2,000 and Shs5,000 when crossing the border.
The suspects are being held at Pakwach Central Police Station as investigations continue.
West Nile Regional Police spokesperson Josephine Angucia confirmed the arrests but said the investigations were still ongoing. Police had not indicated when the suspects would be produced in court.
The operation is part of continuing efforts by authorities to tackle illegal fishing and allegations of corruption in fisheries enforcement around Lake Albert and other water bodies in the region.
