Kavango west: An 18-year-old boy is recovering in hospital after being attacked by a hippopotamus while fishing in the Kavango West Region on Wednesday afternoon. Chief Inspector Raimbert Muronga of the Namibian Police confirmed the incident, saying it occurred around 16h00 at Kasivi village in the Kapako Constituency when Manfred Nairenge and another 16-year-old encountered the aggressive hippo while in their canoe.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Muronga said the hippo struck their fishing canoe, forcing both boys to jump into the water. 'During the chaotic encounter, Nairenge became trapped in reeds where the hippo bit him on the left leg and right side of his ribs, causing serious injuries, while his friend escaped the attack unharmed,' Muronga said. The injured Nairenge was taken to the Bunya Health Centre before being transferred to Rundu State Hospital for specialised medical treatment.

In another incident on Wednesday, a 55-year-old man was found dead alongside a road in Gcwagi village in the Musese Constituency. The deceased identified as Namwira Andreas Mazambo, a resident of Gcamade village, was discovered around 07h00 by children on their way to school. The body was found lying motionless beside the road. 'Mazambo lived alone and had been seen consuming traditional brew at a local shebeen in Gcwagi village the previous evening. A 2-litre container of traditional brew was found beneath his body at the scene,' Muronga said. The police officer revealed that minor blood stains were observed from the nose and mouth of the deceased man, but the exact cause of death is unknown. The body was transported to the Nkurenkuru police mortuary for an autopsy and the next of kin were informed of the incident. Police investigations continue.