The Fisheries Department in Mwense has confiscated over 1,520 Kilograms of assorted fish during the ongoing fishing ban enforcement in the district.

The Department has also seized two motor vehicles namely a Toyota Land cruiser registration number CAE 2796 and Toyota Quantum Bus, registration number AIC 5935 used in the transportation of the confiscated fish to unknown destinations.

ZANIS reports that Mwense District Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator, Nathan Mubanga has disclosed that 1,185 kilogrammes of small fish locally known as “Chisense” was confiscated, on 10th January 2025, from a named transporter on the Toyota Quantum motor vehicle.

Dr. Mubanga explained that in the second operation conducted yesterday, the department intercepted and handed over to police three people in possession of 343 Kilogrammes of assorted fish.

Dr Mubanga added that the Toyota Land cruiser used to ferry the fish has since been seized.

Dr. Mubanga stated that the confiscations of fish and vehicles have been made within a space of five days during the on-going fishing ban enforcement which runs from 1st December to 28th February annually.

“The notable confiscations made so far are an indication of our department’s resolve to fully implement the ban to allow fish stocks to breed. This is despite the challenges that we are faced with, but we are grateful for the support from the co-management structures and the police for their unwavering support which has made our water and road patrols possible,” Dr. Mubanga said.

Dr. Mubanga also disclosed that unaccounted for fishing gears found during water patrols have also been confiscated saying the aim of the department is to ensure that people stay away from the water bodies during the fishing ban.

He noted with concern the failure by some citizens to comply with the annual fishing ban saying the department expects people to allow the fish to breed to prevent it from being depleted.

Dr. Mubanga said the confiscated fish have since been surrendered to the courts of law for disposal while suspects would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.