A joint operation was conducted along the shores of Lake Victoria in Mpunge Sub-county by the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Mukono, Kasibante Hassan, alongside officials from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), led by William Mujuni. The operation targeted individuals who have been constructing illegal structures in the lake and mining sand without proper authorization. These illegal activities have been reported to the police in Mukono, with Godfrey Tumusiime handling the case.
However, some of the individuals involved in these illegal activities have ignored the warnings and continue to occupy the contested areas. Some of those building illegal structures have even gone into hiding, fearing arrest. One of the individuals under scrutiny is Ssembeguya, the administrator of the Ssembeguya family estate, who has been accused of allowing the construction of illegal structures in the lake. He has been given four days by NEMA to provide evidence justifying the existence of the structure.
The operation extended to Nakisunga Sub-county, specifically in Nsonga Village, where trucks were found illegally mining sand without proper oversight. The owners of the trucks were also questioned as part of the investigation.
Some local fishermen have expressed their concerns to the RDC, stating that the illegal construction of structures in the lake has caused them significant problems. They have appealed to the government for increased support, as the areas where they traditionally fish have been taken over by individuals building illegal structures. They also noted that the water hyacinth infestation has worsened due to these structures blocking the waterways.
William Mujuni from NEMA warned the individuals involved to stop constructing illegal structures in the lake. He emphasized that those caught would be arrested and taken to court, and the illegal structures would be demolished.
Godfrey Tumusiime, the police officer handling the case in Mukono, reiterated the importance of stopping these illegal activities, as they harm the environment. He also referenced the President’s directive to protect the environment, stressing that those in charge must not relent in their efforts to prevent environmental degradation.
RDC Kasibante Hassan stated that he has made efforts to warn those involved in illegal construction but noted that they have been evasive. He expressed concern that despite their promises to comply, they have continued their activities in secret, violating the agreements made.
