A fisherman died on Tuesday after he was attacked with a paddle during a violent dispute over fishing grounds on Lake Victoria.
Police in Homa Bay County said the incident occurred at dawn near Remba Island. The deceased, identified as 32-year-old Peter Otieno, was part of a group from Litare Beach that clashed with fishermen from a rival camp.
Witnesses reported that the two groups argued over access to a section of the lake known for its large tilapia population.
According to Homa Bay Sub-County Police Commander Sammy Kosgei, the argument escalated when one suspect struck Otieno on the head with a wooden paddle.
He collapsed and was pronounced dead at the scene. His boat and fishing nets were later recovered by colleagues.
One suspect has been arrested and is in custody at Mbita Police Station. He is assisting detectives with investigations. Police are pursuing two other men who fled in a separate boat after the attack.
Commander Kosgei said territorial disputes between fishing groups have increased due to declining fish stocks and illegal fishing practices. He urged beach management units to enforce boundaries and resolve conflicts peacefully.
The body of the deceased was taken to Homa Bay County Referral Hospital mortuary for a postmortem. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has opened an inquiry.
Authorities called for calm as tensions remain high among fishing communities in the area. Kindly follow for more positive updates.
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