Man throws self into 'pool of death'

A MAN from Bulawayo's Njube suburb died after he allegedly threw himself into Enkwalini "pool of death" in Entumbane on Sunday evening.

Dozens of people have drowned in the pool over the years.

Dalisa Ntele allegedly told his family and neighbours that they were seeing him for the last time, before walking to the pool to end his life.

Sources said he sat at the edge of the pool for a long time sniffing snuff. Suspicious fishermen quized him about his intentions but he told them to stay away from him.

"He sat there sniffing snuff and drinking a soft drink. He had about two snuff containers which he finished. He sat there until the fishermen prepared to retire for the evening. As they were about 50 metres from the pool he threw himself into the water," said the source.

The source said the fishermen could do nothing to assist him as he threw himself into the deep end.

"After realising that they couldn't assist him they reported the matter to the police who attended the scene. His body was only retrieved yesterday in the morning," he said.

He lived with his grandmother.

It's still unclear why Ntele committed suicide.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Precious Simango called on people to desist from taking their lives when they're experiencing problems.

"We appeal to members of the public not to resort to extreme measures when they're having difficulties. It's important to engage other people who can assist in coming up with solutions to problems," said Insp Simango.

She urged members of the public to stay away from Enkwalini.

"We're urging members of the public against conducting any activities in the pool be it fishing, swimming and or baptising each other as many lives have been lost in it," she said.

Last year in October, a man from Entumbane suburb was found floating in the same pool after suspicions that he committed suicide.