Church member drowns during baptism

Fanyana Village in Nkayi is mourning the sudden loss of Innocent Moyo, 35, a member of the Twelve Apostolic sect, who tragically drowned during a baptism service at Tohwe Dam. The incident has left the local community in shock and sorrow.

According to Assistant Inspector Glory Banda, spokesperson for Matebeleland North Police, Moyo had successfully baptised five congregants before calling on Pindani Sibanda for his turn. While performing the baptism on Sibanda, Moyo reportedly lost his footing and slipped into the deeper waters of the dam. Unable to swim to safety, he drowned as horrified church members watched helplessly.

Police were alerted promptly, and Moyo's body was later recovered by a combined effort of church members and villagers. Authorities confirmed that there were no visible injuries on the body, ruling out foul play.

"The body was retrieved, but no visible injuries were noted," Assistant Inspector Banda confirmed.

The tragic event has cast a pall over Fanyana Village, with residents expressing their grief over the loss during what should have been a sacred and joyous occasion.

"This is a tragic event, and our thoughts are with the family and the congregation during this difficult time. It is essential for communities to prioritise safety during such ceremonies, and we urge them to seek safer locations for future baptisms," Banda added.

The community now faces the difficult task of coming to terms with the loss while reflecting on the need for improved safety measures during religious gatherings near water bodies.