Fisherman dies while testing his fishing nets

A Binga man, Duncan Chiminya (54) drowned at Charimbana fishing area in the district while testing his fishing nets at night.

The incident happened on 15 March at about 8pm.

Matabeleland North police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Siphiwe Makonese confirmed the incident yesterday and said it occurred in the Sengwa area along Lake Kariba.

"The man, Duncan Chiminya, was checking his fishing nets at night at Charimbana fishing area along Lake Kariba. He slipped and drowned.

"His body was found floating in the lake by a villager, Smart Mupande who rushed and alerted other villagers," said Asst Insp Makonese.

She said villagers retrieved the body and reported the matter to the police at Sinamusanga base.

"Police attended the scene and no foul play is suspected. We want to urge fishermen to desist from checking their fishing nets during odd hours. They should also be in the company of other villagers when they test their nets so that in case of emergency, they can be helped," said Asst Insp Makonese.

Meanwhile, a 36-year-old woman from Dobola Village in Binga was fatally struck by lightning while working in her fields.

The incident happened on Monday at about 6pm.

Asst Insp Makonese confirmed the incident.

"Marian Mwinde was working in her fields when it started raining. She, however, continued working until the rain started falling heavily," said Asst Insp Makonese.

"She was struck by lightning and her husband discovered the body and made a report to the police. Police attended the scene and suspected no foul play," said Asst Insp Makonese.

"We would like to advise villagers to rush home whenever it starts raining. They are also urged to desist from their habit of sheltering under trees when it is raining because they could be struck by lightning."