News / National
Man swept away while crossing flooded Umguza river in Bulawayo
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A tragic incident in Bulawayo claimed the life of 30-year-old Richard Sibanda from Killarney Squatter Camp, who drowned while attempting to cross a flooded river near his home.
According to Acting Bulawayo Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, Sibanda and five others were crossing Umguza River Bridge from Cement Side compound to their residence on Sunday around 9 PM when the accident occurred.
"The water was flowing over the bridge to about knee level. The deceased, who was at the front, was swept away to the other side of the bridge and straight into the river. The other four men did not cross the bridge after seeing that the deceased had been swept away," said Assistant Inspector Msebele.
Residents were alerted by Sibanda's companions and immediately launched a search. After hours of effort, they found his lifeless body clinging to a tree in the middle of the river. A report was made to the police, and Sibanda's body was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals Mortuary for a post-mortem.
Assistant Inspector Msebele urged the public to avoid crossing flooded rivers to prevent similar tragedies.
"We advise members of the public not to risk their lives by attempting to cross flooded rivers. Instead, use alternative routes or wait for the water to subside to ensure safety," she said.
This incident highlights the dangers of navigating flooded waterways during the rainy season and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in such conditions.
According to Acting Bulawayo Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, Sibanda and five others were crossing Umguza River Bridge from Cement Side compound to their residence on Sunday around 9 PM when the accident occurred.
"The water was flowing over the bridge to about knee level. The deceased, who was at the front, was swept away to the other side of the bridge and straight into the river. The other four men did not cross the bridge after seeing that the deceased had been swept away," said Assistant Inspector Msebele.
Residents were alerted by Sibanda's companions and immediately launched a search. After hours of effort, they found his lifeless body clinging to a tree in the middle of the river. A report was made to the police, and Sibanda's body was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals Mortuary for a post-mortem.
Assistant Inspector Msebele urged the public to avoid crossing flooded rivers to prevent similar tragedies.
"We advise members of the public not to risk their lives by attempting to cross flooded rivers. Instead, use alternative routes or wait for the water to subside to ensure safety," she said.
This incident highlights the dangers of navigating flooded waterways during the rainy season and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in such conditions.
Source - the herald
