Residents of Lyashulu Village in the Zambezi Region have expressed disappointment with the alleged continuation of harassment by members of the Anti-Poaching Unit in their area.
The Headman of Shihyera Sub-Khuta, Oscar Munanzi, says the actions of the Unit cannot be tolerated anymore.
The community says several fishermen in the area have allegedly been subjected to torture and harassment and had their fish confiscated despite being in possession of fishing permits from the Fisheries Ministry.
Recently, two fishermen at Lyanshulu were allegedly forced to sit on top of their canoes while the anti-poaching unit members aimed their firearms at the canoes.
The fishermen explained their ordeal with the Anti-Poaching Unit in Balyerwa Conservancy outside Mudumu National Park, saying the Unit shot at their canoes, destroying them.
The Traditional Authority at Lyanshulu now seeks an audience with Zambezi Governor Alufea Sampofu, saying the matter threatens the lives of the local community.
"We requested that he come with the Head of Anti-Poaching, the Head of Environment and Tourism, and the Head of Fisheries because those are the people giving us problems. We do not understand why permits were issued because once you are found with fish while having a permit, you are fined and your fish are taken as well," said senior traditional councillor Oscar Munanzi.
Munanzi stressed that the community respects the fish reserves, and none of the community members in the area were found in Mudumu National Park despite residing at the edge of the park.
Contacted for comment, Zambezi Police Regional Commander Andreas Shilelo stated that it is impossible for anyone to have shot at the canoes, especially with people on them.
Shilelo said the fishermen with fishing permits cannot be given fines, nor can their fish be confiscated.
The Police Regional Commander told nbc News that he would follow up on the allegations.
He also urged the community to immediately call him whenever they encountered such behaviour from members of the police