Roasted rat. Photo: Alamy.

A man in northern Uganda has allegedly killed his friend following a dispute over missing roasted rat meat, according to Ugandan media reports.

The Daily Monitor reported that the incident happened in Kitgum district after the suspect discovered that one of his roasted rats was missing.

This reportedly sparked a quarrel between the two men which later turned into a physical fight.

The victim, identified as Omony, sustained serious injuries during the altercation and was rushed to Orom Health Centre for treatment.

However, he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police later arrested the suspect in connection with the killing.

According to the media house, rats are considered a delicacy and also serve as a source of income for some communities in Kitgum and Lamwo districts in northern Uganda.

Each roasted rat costs between Shs 500 and Shs 1,000, depending on the size.