Nairobi — Fifteen Kenyan fishermen have been arrested near the controversial Migingo Island in Lake Victoria.

The arrests come against efforts by top Kenyan government officials to solve a dispute over the ownership of the island, claimed by both Kenya and Uganda.

An inter-ministerial team has been formed and Fisheries Development minister Paul Otuoma and Nyanza PC Paul Olando travelled to Uganda pursue the matter.

Meanwhile Nyatike MP Edick Anyanga has called for an unconditional release of the fishermen.

He said the arbitrary arrests over claims of fishing trespass in the lake were a threat to the East African Community spirit.

Lake boundaries must be clearly drawn to avert continued harassment of Kenyan fishermen from Migori, he said.