TENDAI MUERERWA
​CHIPINGE – A 51-year-old man from Uketi Village under Chief Mahenye tragically lost his life on Tuesday evening after being swept away by the flooded Save River.
​On April 14, at approximately 18:00, Zaphania Sithole and his wife, Luzane Hetisani (38), were on their way to their maize field located on Lusungwe Island. Upon reaching the banks of the Save River, the couple discovered the river was overflowing.
Despite the dangerous conditions and pleas from his wife to turn back, Sithole—who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol—insisted on crossing the flooded river. He was quickly overwhelmed by the strong currents and swept away.
​After witnessing her husband disappear into the water, Hetisani alerted local villagers. An immediate search party was organized, but they were unable to locate him due to the fading light and rising waters.
​The following morning, April 15, the search concluded when a local resident, identified as Mashava from Hlohlo Village, discovered Sithole’s body floating near the riverbank.
The matter was reported to the Chisumbanje Police Station. The deceased’s body has since been transported to St. Peter’s Hospital Mortuary, where it is currently awaiting a post-mortem examination.
​Manicaland Province acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing. He issued a stern warning to the public regarding water safety:
​”We advise the public to exercise extreme caution and refrain from attempting to cross flooded rivers. Furthermore, we urge citizens never to enter water bodies while under the influence of alcohol, as it severely impairs judgment and physical ability.”
He also added that the rain season is still upon us and all precautionary measures should be followed to the letter.
