Tanzanian Government Wins Sh1 Billion Fishing Nets Legal Battle

The High Court of Tanzania ruled in favor of the government in a case where businesswoman Shenaz Halari sought over Sh1 billion in compensation for the seizure of fishing nets. Halari’s claims were built on allegations of unlawful seizure by fisheries officers in 2017. However, the court found insufficiencies in her proof of ownership and upheld the government’s assertion of legal authority in enforcing fishing regulations.

The Tanzanian government has won a legal case concerning the seizure of fishing nets, resulting in a dismissal of a lawsuit filed by businesswoman Shenaz Halari, who sought over Sh1 billion in damages. In this suit, Halari claimed that on February 20, 2017, officers posing as fisheries officers unlawfully entered her premises and confiscated 146 bags of fishing nets valued at approximately Sh422.9 million.

The ruling, issued on February 14, 2025, by Judge Arnold Kirekiano of the High Court of Tanzania, indicated that the nets were seized in accordance with legal procedures. Halari’s claim included demands for compensation for the seized nets, interests totaling Sh515.8 million, and Sh100 million in damages. However, the government contended that the nets were imported illegally, with sizes exceeding the legal allowance of three inches.

Halari alleged that the nets were taken to the Chang’ombe Police Station without any charges of illegal fishing. As part of her case, she noted that she was arrested on accusations of possession of illegal nets, but maintained that these charges were later dismissed. The case had been complicated by an integration of ongoing criminal investigations against her.

The defence, represented by state attorneys, presented evidence and witnesses affirming the legality of the seizure, asserting that the nets in question belonged to Imara Fish Net Company and did not comply with size regulations. The lack of registration as a fishing net trader further undermined Halari’s position in the legal proceedings.

The judgment concluded that Halari failed to substantiate her ownership claims over the nets, and as such, was not entitled to pursue the lawsuit. The court underlined the defendants’ authority in enforcing compliance with fishing regulations, thus dismissing the case and ordering Halari to pay legal costs.

In summary, the Tanzanian government’s successful defense against Shenaz Halari’s lawsuit highlights the legal framework surrounding the seizure of illegally imported fishing nets. The case underscores the importance of compliance with fishing regulations and proper licensing for traders. Ultimately, the court ruled that Halari’s claims lacked sufficient evidence of ownership, leading to a dismissal of her suit with costs awarded against her.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz