FPU Struggles With Growing Stockpile of Seized Motorcycles and Bicycles in Masaka

The Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is grappling with a growing stockpile of seized transport equipment, following sustained operations against illegal fishing activities in the Greater Masaka Sub-region.

The impounded items include over 50 motorcycles, 70 bicycles, and one motor vehicle, all confiscated from suspected illegal fish transporters.

Many of the motorcycles are currently parked at the FPU base inside the Armoured Brigade Barracks in Kasijjagirwa, where they continue to gather dust.

FPU commander Lt Hatim Mbazira explained that many of the suspects abandoned their motorcycles and bicycles after being intercepted during the operations.

He said some of the property was impounded as far back as December last year, while other cases date back several years.

“Many of these motorcycles were abandoned by their owners after being intercepted by our officers. Some were impounded between December last year and this month,” Mbazira said.

“We now have a logistical challenge because most suspects flee, leaving the property behind.”

Operations Commander Major Frank Kanzira confirmed that some of the impounded motorcycles and bicycles have been lying idle at the barracks since 2018.

He noted that the FPU is working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries to decide the fate of the seized property.

“Some of these items have been here for years. We’re consulting with the ministry to guide us on whether to auction them, hand them over to police, or consider other lawful alternatives,” Maj Kanzira said.

He also issued a strong warning to those still engaged in the illegal transportation of immature fish, urging them to abandon the practice immediately.

“The hunt is still on. We urge everyone involved in illegal fishing to abandon the practice and engage in lawful businesses. The government is determined to protect our fisheries resources for sustainability,” he warned.

The Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Masaka City, Ahamada Washaki, praised the FPU’s continued vigilance and noted that their presence has contributed to increased government revenue from the fisheries sector.

“Because of the presence and work of the Fisheries Protection Unit, government revenue from fisheries has increased. The community should work with the unit and follow fishing guidelines to safeguard future generations,” Washaki said.

The Vice Chairperson LCIII of Bukakata Sub-county, Emmanuel Kazinda, also commended the unit’s role in restoring order on Uganda’s waters, urging continued cooperation between fishermen and law enforcement.

During a recent function attended by security officials, local leaders, and members of the fishing community, Lt. Mbazira officially handed over command to the new sector commander.

The handover marked a leadership transition within the FPU as it continues its enforcement operations on Lake Victoria and other major water bodies.

Despite its enforcement successes, the FPU now faces a growing dilemma over how to manage the abandoned motorcycles, bicycles, and other equipment that continue to accumulate at its base.

The situation has sparked concerns about long-term storage, legal processes, and appropriate disposal of the confiscated property as the crackdown on illegal fishing shows no signs of slowing down.