Fishing expedition ends in tragedy as 15-year-old ...

Fishing expedition ends in tragedy as 15-year-old drowns

Zim Now Writer

A fishing expedition for three boys from Mkhubazi Village in the Sanzukwi area of Mangwe District in Matabeleland South Province ended in tragedy after one of them drowned.

Police confirmed the death of 15-year-old Witsman Ndebele, who was fishing with colleagues at Manotsi Dam on Sunday.

He drowned while attempting to retrieve fish which had been caught by his trap.

“Upon arrival at the dam, the trio got into the water to set their plastic bottle fishing traps and after setting the traps, they waited outside the water monitoring the traps. After the now-deceased realised that his trap had caught some fish he then swum into the dam a distance of about 70 metres to collect his catch.

“As he was swimming back, he showed signs of getting weaker and started to drown in full view of his counterparts who then informed one of the Mkhubazi villagers. A police report was made, and scene was attended, with the body of the deceased retrieved by local villagers,” said Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandolwenkosi Moyo.

Asst Insp Moyo said members of the public must have safety clothing when entering water bodies.

“As police, we urge members of the public to have safety clothing when entering water bodies than risk their lives. We are saddened by the continued loss of life,” he said.