Disillusioned Fisherman Drowns in Lake Victoria After Love Triangle Dispute

Stephen Nanyungi, 34, drowned after prematurely departing a meeting to resolve a dispute over a woman who was married to another man

Tragedy has struck Ziiru Landing Site in Lyabaana Town Council, Buvuma District, following the death of a 34-year-old fisherman, Stephen Nanyungi, who drowned in Lake Victoria in the early hours of January 7, 2025.

Police reports indicate that Nanyungi’s death occurred after a heated dispute with another man, Ronald Mubiru, also known as Kafupi, over a woman, Hamida Tebazire.

Tebazire, who has been married to Mubiru for three months, is alleged to have been romantically involved with Nanyungi, sparking the conflict.

The dispute reportedly began over the Christmas holidays when Tebazire, after spending the festivities with her family, returned to the islands but stayed for two days at Nanyungi's home.

This prompted Mubiru to report the matter to the local LC1 chairperson of Bushenyi Zone, seeking intervention.

The chairperson summoned both men for mediation, but the discussion escalated into a heated argument.

Witnesses say each man accused the other of interfering in their relationship with Tebazire.

Later that evening, a distraught and intoxicated Nanyungi left the meeting abruptly and headed toward the lake.

Despite attempts by locals to stop him, he boarded his fishing canoe and paddled into the dark waters of Lake Victoria.

Moments later, cries for help were heard, but rescuers arrived too late, and Nanyungi had drowned.

Nanyungi, a resident of Bushenyi Zone and a well-known fisherman in the community, was retrieved hours later by local fishermen. His body was taken to Buvuma Health Centre IV for a postmortem.

Ssezibwa Region Police spokesperson SP Hellen Butoto confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that Nanyungi was overwhelmed by emotional distress stemming from the love triangle dispute,” she said.

Tebazire and Mubiru have since been arrested for questioning as part of the investigation.

Authorities have urged residents to seek peaceful resolutions through local leaders or counsellors to avoid such tragic outcomes.

The tragic incident has left the community in shock, with family and friends mourning Nanyungi's untimely death.