ARUA — Police in Arua City are investigating the drowning of a 27-year-old man at Otokwa Beach in Ayivu East Division after he allegedly entered the water against advice from his friends.
The deceased, identified as John Anguyo, a mason and resident of Vurra Andruvu Cell in Ombaci Ward, former Manibe Sub-county, reportedly drowned on Monday afternoon while swimming at the beach in Odravu Asea Cell, Odravu Ward.
According to police, Anguyo had gone to the beach with four friends for leisure when the incident occurred.
Preliminary findings indicate that the deceased insisted on swimming despite repeated warnings from his companions.
“It is alleged that the deceased and four of his friends went to Otokwa Beach for leisure. His friends tried to stop him from swimming, but he insisted and forcefully entered the water where he got stuck in clay beneath the surface and drowned,” said SSP Josephine Angucia, the West Nile Regional Police spokesperson.
The incident reportedly occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on June 22 and was later reported to police by the beach manager, Anthony Andrua, 55.
Police from Ayivu East Division responded to the scene, documented evidence and later conveyed the body to Arua Regional Referral Hospital for a postmortem examination.
“Police visited and examined the scene, recorded statements from the beach manager and the friends who were with the deceased, and conveyed the body to Arua Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem as investigations continue,” Angucia said.
She urged members of the public to exercise caution around water bodies and avoid swimming in unfamiliar or potentially dangerous areas.
“We appeal to the public to prioritise safety whenever they visit beaches, rivers or other water bodies. People should heed advice from friends, local guides and beach managers, and avoid taking unnecessary risks that can lead to loss of life,” she added.
The case has been registered at Ayivu East Division Police Station under CRB 107/2026, and investigations are ongoing.
