Bugesera district authorities have cautioned against illegal fishing at Ririma River following an increase in crocodile attacks at the river.
On Tuesday Valens Ndayambaje was attacked by a crocodile while fetching water, he sustained serious injuries and he is being nursed at a nearby health center.
Illegal fishemen are known to fish without boats as a way to hide their identity yet camouflaging make them prone to crocodile bites.
Those legally registered and working in cooperatives are safer because they have sophisticated boats and move in large numbers hence making it easier to protect themselves.
Jean Pierre Gasaba the executive secretary of Kimaranzara sector bordering the river advised residents to be alert while fetching water at the river.
He condemned an attitude of greed for quick money seen in illegal fishermen, who go to the river without protective measures and also sell the fish without paying tax.
It’s hard for illegal fishermen to keep off the shores given the lucrative nature of the business. “I and my friend generate more than Frw 20,000 before noon every day,” said Emmanuel Bisengimana.
Barthazar Hicuburundi who is weary of the crocodiles said, “Yes the money is easy and quick but our lives are at risk, we work under Gods grace or else we could have died long ago like some of our friends. Our families are always ready for bad news,” he remarked.
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