AMOLATAR DISTRICT, UGANDA – An 18-year-old fisherman has drowned in Lake Kyoga after strong winds caused water to swamp his boat late Sunday night, police have confirmed. The body of Ogwal Bruno has not yet been recovered, and search efforts are ongoing.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:00 PM on April 13, 2026, at Ober Okaa Village, Bangladesh Parish, Namasale Sub-county in Amolatar District. It was reported the following morning at 8:42 AM by Opio Charles, a 58-year-old resident of Awelober Village.
According to a statement released by SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, Police Spokesperson for the North Kyoga Region, the deceased had gone fishing with a companion, Okwara Samuel, 23, using illegal fishing gear—specifically a small, non-standard boat.
“At about 2100 hours, strong winds developed on the lake, causing water to splash into the boat, which subsequently started sinking,” Okema said. “In an attempt to save themselves, both men jumped into the water and struggled to swim to safety. However, the deceased failed to make it out and drowned, while the survivor managed to escape.”
Preliminary investigations indicate that the pair had set out on the lake around 4:00 PM on Sunday. Okwara Samuel, a resident of Ober Okaa Village, is currently alive and assisting police with inquiries.
Ogwal Bruno, a fisherman who lived with his grandparents in Awelober Village, Kikondo Parish, originally hailed from Abei Village, Apanylongo Parish, Agali Sub-county in Lira District. Police say they are awaiting the arrival of his relatives from Lira District to record formal statements and assist in further management of the case.
Territorial police at Namasale Sub-county have registered a case of drowning, visited the scene, and commenced full investigations. As of Tuesday evening, efforts to recover the teenager’s body remain active.
“The territorial police at Namasale Sub-county registered a case of drowning, visited the scene of crime, and commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement added.
Authorities have cautioned local fishermen against using unseaworthy vessels and illegal gear, especially as the rainy season intensifies winds on inland lakes. The survivor is reportedly receiving counseling while cooperating with the ongoing probe.
