Fisherman drowns while fleeing Fisheries Protection Unit

Police in Buikwe are investigating the drowning of a fisherman who attempted to escape from the Fisheries Protection Unit on Lake Victoria.

The incident occurred on the evening of 8/1/2024 at approximately 20:00 hrs, involving two fishermen identified as Kigongo Gerald, 34 years old, and Kayungo Francis.

Both individuals were residents of Kivubu village, Lugoba parish, Ssi Subcounty in Buikwe District. They were engaged in illegal fishing when they encountered officers on patrol, prompting their attempt to flee.

According to SP Hellen Butoto, the PRO for the Ssezibwa Police Region, as the fishermen tried to escape, they jumped into the lake. Fortunately, the officers managed to rescue Kayungo, while Kigongo became entangled in a heavy fishing net and tragically drowned.

The lifeless body of the deceased was recovered and handed over to the relatives for burial. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are currently underway.