12-year-old boy dies after crocodile attack on Lake Kyoga shores in Buyende

A 12-year-old boy has died in eastern Uganda after being attacked by a crocodile while fetching water from Lake Kyoga in Buyende District.

The victim, Bashir Walubo, a resident of Iyingo village in Kagulu Sub-county, was reportedly attacked on Wednesday evening as he went to the lakeshore with friends.

Residents said the child was drawing water when the crocodile emerged from the lake and dragged him into an attack. Fishermen nearby reportedly intervened and managed to rescue him after inflicting injuries on the reptile.

Walubo was rushed to a nearby private clinic where he received first aid. His father, Ali Kalulu, said the boy suffered severe injuries to his chest and abdomen and was in critical pain.

He said health workers later referred the child to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for advanced treatment, but the family was unable to raise transport costs, forcing them to take him back home.

The boy later died as relatives attempted to secure further medical help.

Local leaders say crocodile attacks remain a growing concern along Lake Kyoga. Michael Kange, a member of the Iyingo Beach Management Committee, said similar incidents had been reported in the area in recent months.

“We need clear warnings and safety measures to protect communities living near the lake from further attacks,” he said.

He called on the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to identify high-risk zones and strengthen safety measures to prevent future incidents.

Residents have also urged authorities to step up awareness campaigns and improve protection for communities living along the lake.