Sumbawanga — A FISHERMAN from Kala village along the shores of Lake Tanganyika was abducted but later abandoned in deep waters by suspected bandits believed to be from DR Congo.

Joseph Sungura (35) was taken hostage by a gang of armed bandits last week at night while on a fishing mission, along with his fellow fishermen, according to Kala Ward officials.

He was however, abandoned in one of the canoes by the bandits believed to be about 12. The victim rowed the canoe for two days before reaching the shore in Nkasi District. Kala Ward CouncilLor Mr Privatus Yorum confirmed the incident and said a tired and hungry Sungura was found lying along the shore.

The bandits are said to have made away with the fishermen's items worth over 31.3m/-. When the bandits struck, the 15 fishermen managed to evade them by diving into the lake and swam to the shore. The gangsters towed away with them three canoes worth over 6m/- and four engines worth 24m/-, taking Mr Sungura hostage.

The Acting Mpasa Village Executive Officer, Mr Privatus Malyatabu, said the stolen items belonged to Baruani Kamongo, Godson Minazi, Respiu Luwela and Garus Machimba. When contacted for comments, the Rukwa Regional Police Commander, Mr Isuto Mantage only said they were tracking down the bandits.