16 Tanzanian fishermen detained in Migori

16 Tanzanian fishermen detained in Migori

Sixteen Tanzanian fishermen accused of using outlawed fishing gears in Kenyan water are presently detained at Bamgot beach in Nyatike sub-county, Migori County.

This comes after 36 Kenyan fishermen were arrested and detained by the Tanzania authorities for alleged trespassing.

Muhuru Bay Beach Management Unit chairperson Tobias Mragire said the Tanzanian fishermen were arrested on Saturday night during a crackdown.

Mr. Mragire said they are targeting more Tanzanian fishermen in what he termed a “retaliatory plan” following the detention of the 36 Kenyan fishermen by the neighbouring country.

The beach management unit boss said they have decided to initiate the crackdown against Tanzania fishermen for trespassing to the Kenyan waters due to alleged harassment of their members by the Tanzania authority.

Mr. Mragire said the sixteen Tanzanians will be arraigned before court and charged.

Tanzanian security officials previously demanded Ksh.1.3 million to free the 36 Kenyan fishermen arrested and detained on Sunday, November 4, 2018.

The neighbouring country also asked for Ksh.200,000 for each of the ten boats seized during the operation on Lake Victoria.

Among the 36 detained in Tanzania are three pupils and three students.

Tags:

Migori County Kenyan fishermen Tanzanian fishermen

Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.

latest stories