Kampala, (UG):- The Uganda Police Marine Unit has arrested seven individuals suspected of involvement in a theft ring operating ad terrorizing fishermen on Lake Victoria waters.
The arrests according to Police Spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma took place on December 26, 2024, following a well-coordinated operation bolstered by maritime intelligence.
During the operation, the police recovered stolen items, including two Yamaha outboard engines valued at 14 million Uganda shillings and several fishing nets.
ACP Kituuma, confirmed the arrests and highlighted the significance of the breakthrough identifying the suspects as Nkolo Katende (48), Lugolobi David (46), Sanday Frank (30), Maison John (30), Balikudembe Godfrey (42), Bwabye Kizito (46), and Kirunda Siraje (23).
Kituuma said police investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of their activities and whether they are linked to other maritime crimes.
“This operation is part of our ongoing efforts to combat maritime crime on the lakes of Uganda. The suspects will face the law for their involvement in these thefts.
“This successful operation demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the safety of people and property on Uganda’s lakes. We encourage the public to report any suspicious activities to help us eradicate crime in these waters,” ACP Kituuma added.
The recovery of the stolen outboard engines and fishing nets is a significant relief for the affected victims, who had suffered financial losses due to the theft.
A fisherman, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed gratitude for the police’s swift action. “These engines are very expensive, and losing one can ruin a fisherman’s livelihood. We are glad the police acted quickly,” he said.
The suspects, according to Kituuma, are currently in police custody and are expected to face charges of theft and related offenses in court.
He reaffirmed the police’s commitment to intensifying patrols and deploying more resources to safeguard Uganda’s waterways. “This is a warning to those engaged in maritime crime. We will find you, and you will face justice,” Kituuma said.
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