Fifteen Kenyan fishermen have been arrested near the controversial Migingo Island on Lake Victoria, which may create a rift in diplomatic relations between Uganda and Kenya. Both countries claim ownership of the island.

Kenyan officials are in Uganda to solve a simmering dispute over the ownership of the island. Police Spokesperson Judith Nabakooba confirmed the arrests yesterday and said the suspects would be charged with illegal entry into Uganda. "They entered our territory to fish without authorisation and permits. We are going to prosecute them under the Fisheries Act," Ms Nabakooba said.

She said they have often arrested Kenyan fishermen who enter Uganda's waters without authorisation. The Kenyan government formed an inter-ministerial team to address the conflict.

The team led by Fisheries Development Minister Dr Paul Otuoma and Nyanza PC Mr Paul Olando, who are in Uganda, were silent about the issue but said it would be part of their discussion in a three-day meeting.

Reported by Andrew Bagala, Ephraim Kasozi in Kampala and Cosmas Butuny & Elisha Otieno in Nairobi