Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan has issued a stern warning to the Beach Management Units (BMU) chairpersons against encouraging illegal fishing in the waters of Lake Victoria.
Lilan said there are BMU officials who are in the business of accepting bribes from some fishermen as ‘protection’ money to partake in unlawful fishing in the lake using illegal gear.
“We will deal with those officials who have started the business that permits illegal activities in the lake for money,” he said.
Lilan further warned that some fishermen are involved in smuggling of nets worth millions of shillings into the county from neighbouring Tanzania, but fail to pay the sellers their dues leading to fights in the lake.
“These fishermen engage in illegal activities like smuggling of nets and when a fight breaks out then they claim harassment in the lake. I am warning you that we will put a stop to all these,” he said.
The CC urged the BMU officials to work closely with the Nyumba Kumi Initiative in the fight against illegal fishing to create an enabling and secure environment so that the public can peacefully carry out their fishing activities and thrive economically.
Lilan who spoke Sunday during the Mashujaa celebrations at Wakiaga Polytechnic in Suba North Sub County, challenged the chiefs to rid the county of gambling activities such as aviator betting strategy which he said is the major cause for the frequent suicide cases.
“It is either the gambling machines or the chiefs, because the two cannot exist together. Let all of you be vigilant and ensure no gambling takes place in your areas of jurisdiction,” he warned.
As learners return home for the long holidays, the county commissioner challenged parents and the churches to work hand in hand to protect them and ensure they are safe from harm.
“We all know what happens during holidays, many people want to take advantage of our children. It is your responsibility as parents to protect your children and ensure they go back to school in one piece,” he noted.
By Sitna Omar
