The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is facing a major setback in its efforts to control dangerous crocodiles on Lake George after fishermen in Kanyabikyere allegedly stole fishing nets that had been strategically laid to trap the reptiles.
Residents and fishermen across various Landing Sites in Mahyoro town council, in Kitagwenda District have experienced repeated crocodile attacks over the years, with several fishermen reportedly killed or seriously injured while fishing or carrying out activities along the lake shores. The attacks have created fear among residents whose livelihoods depend entirely on the lake.
Recently,the Kitagwenda county member of parliament hon.Robert Mugabe alias Omutembuzi petitioned repeated loss of lives by crocodiles.
To reduce the threat, UWA deployed its Problem Animal Capture Team to identify areas frequently used by crocodiles and laid heavy-duty capture nets designed specifically to restrain the reptiles without killing them.
The trapped crocodiles would then be relocated to safer habitats away from fishing communities, a method UWA has successfully used in other parts of Uganda.
However, before the operation could yield results, some fishermen allegedly removed and stole the expensive nets. According to officials, the disappearance of the equipment has disrupted the ongoing exercise and exposed both wildlife officers and local residents to greater danger.
Mike Birungi the assistant Human wildlife conflicts officer said their theft not only causes financial losses to the authority but also delays efforts to capture problem crocodiles that continue to threaten human lives.
He has also appealed to the public to avoid tampering with wildlife management equipment and has warned that anyone found stealing or vandalizing conservation property could face prosecution under Uganda’s wildlife laws. The authority says community cooperation remains essential in balancing human safety with wildlife conservation.
Local leaders suspect that individuals involved in illegal fishing may have targeted the nets for personal use. Regardless of the motive, conservation authorities warn that such actions ultimately put the entire fishing community at greater risk.
Local leaders are urging fishermen to cooperate with UWA by reporting suspicious activity and supporting wildlife management efforts. They argue that successful removal of dangerous crocodiles would improve safety on Lake George and help restore confidence among fishermen who venture onto the water each day.