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Raymond Jaravaza, [email protected]

POLICE have expressed concern over the rise in drowning incidents in the country amid revelations that 29 people lost their lives in water bodies in just three months, from June to August this year.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, revealed the statistics while appealing to members of the public to remain vigilant near or in water bodies such as swimming pools, dams and rivers.

The latest drowning incident occurred in Kamativi, a mining town in Matabeleland North Province, where the victim drowned while swimming in Chilonga River less than a week ago. 

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is concerned about drowning incidents recorded throughout the country. 

Commissioner Paul Nyathi

“The police received 29 cases of drowning between June and August 2024,” said Comm Nyathi. 

“Some of the cases occurred while victims were engaging in activities such as swimming, casting of fishing nets and participating in manjuzu rituals and bathing.

“In Domboshava, on August 7, 2024, a drowning incident was received by the police where the victim drowned while performing manjuzu rituals at Gorimo River.

“In another drowning incident, which occurred on August 20,2024, the victim drowned while casting fishing nets.

“In Kamativi, on August 28, 2024, the victim drowned while swimming in Chilonga River,” said Comm. Nyathi.

He urged members of the public to be vigilant in and around water bodies, especially during the upcoming rainy season.

“As the country braces for the summer and rainy season, members of the public are urged to take heed of safety and precautionary measures  when they approach water bodies in order to safeguard lives,” said Comm Nyathi.