A group of Kenyan fishermen arrested last month on the Tanzanian side of Lake Victoria will have to stay longer in custody after a court postponed their ruling.
The 36 fishermen are facing charges of trespass, and are also accused of using disallowed fishing nets at the time of their apprehension.
They were expected to appear at a Musoma Court on Tuesday but are now set to face the judge and prosecution on December 12.
Confirming the postponement, Kibro Beach Management Unit Chair Samuel Magese decried alleged harassment of fishermen by the Tanzanian authorities.
He expressed hope that they shall soon be freed to return to their homes and businesses, calling upon President Uhuru Kenyatta to reach out to his Tanzania counterpart John Magufuli on the matter, reports the Citizen Digital.
Earlier, Tanzania demanded 1.2 million shillings to release the group and their confiscated boats and gear, an amount they have been unable to raise, resulting in a 3 week stay in detention.
Calls have also been made to local leaders to intervene in an attempt to secure the release of the fishermen.
This follows a recent meeting between Presidents Uhuru and Magufuli when they officially opened the Namanga one stop border post.