A peaceful night of fishing turned deadly on Lake Lemwa in Pallisa District as a violent clash between rival fishermen groups left one man dead and another fighting for his life. The incident, which occurred on the evening of March 4, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the communities of Nsambya and Docha villages, highlighting the escalating tensions over fishing grounds in the region. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the murder and attempted murder, as the search for justice begins.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Wunyi Augustine Isabilye, a 30-year-old fisherman from Nsambya village, lost his life during a brutal confrontation with fishermen from neighboring Docha village. The altercation erupted around 10:30 PM when the Docha group allegedly disrupted the nets of Wunyi and his companions, sparking chaos. Outnumbered and overpowered, Wunyi and his fellow fishermen found themselves in a life-threatening situation as their canoe capsized, leaving them vulnerable to violent attacks. Eyewitnesses recount a harrowing scene as the attackers used paddles and sticks to prevent Wunyi from escaping the water. Despite his desperate attempts to swim to safety, he was repeatedly struck, ultimately succumbing to the assault. His body was later recovered from the lake and taken to Pallisa Hospital for a postmortem examination. Miraculously, one of Wunyi’s companions, Mukesi Andrew, managed to escape the violence and raise the alarm. Another fisherman, Kesi Silyani, was rescued unconscious and rushed to Pallisa Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Local councilor Muwoigi Stephen, who reported the incident to Kasodo Police Post, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling for swift justice and an end to the recurring conflicts over fishing rights in the area. Police have launched a thorough investigation, registering the case as murder and attempted murder. Statements from witnesses have been recorded, and the crime scene has been meticulously documented by the Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO). Authorities are now working to identify and apprehend suspects from Docha village, while the community mourns the loss of a beloved fisherman and prays for the recovery of the injured. As the sun rises over Lake Lemwa, the once tranquil waters now bear the scars of a tragic night. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for dialogue and conflict resolution among fishing communities. While the investigation continues, the people of Nsambya and Docha villages are left grappling with grief and the hope that such a tragedy will never repeat itself.
Local leaders and authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to foster peace and cooperation among the fishing communities to prevent future conflicts.
