Two fishermen from Ndhuru Beach in Lambwe Ward, Suba North Sub-County, have been killed and three others seriously injured following a violent confrontation with fishermen from Koginga Beach in Homa Bay Town.
The incident occurred at around 4am when fishermen from Ndhuru Beach were conducting a patrol to protect their fish breeding zones from alleged invasion by fishermen from Koginga Beach.
Lambwe East Location Chief Benard Onditi Ouma said he received reports that the Ndhuru patrol team had been attacked by fishermen from Koginga, who were allegedly using illegal fishing gear.
According to Onditi, tensions escalated after a boat belonging to the Ndhuru patrol team developed a mechanical problem, leaving the fishermen unable to move.
He said fishermen from Koginga, who were operating about eight boats, allegedly descended on the Ndhuru team and pelted them with stones.
The attack left two fishermen dead and three others with serious injuries.
The injured fishermen were rescued and taken to Homa Bay County Referral Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The incident has sparked concerns over growing tensions between fishing communities and the use of illegal fishing methods in Lake Victoria.
Homa Bay County Beach Management Unit Chairperson Edward Oremo condemned the violence and cautioned fishermen against using illegal fishing gear.
Oremo also warned against unauthorised fishing patrols, saying such actions can trigger confrontations between rival groups and lead to unnecessary loss of lives.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly confrontation and establish the events that led to the deaths and injuries.
