SYDNEY MUBAIWA
GWERU- What began as a day meant to attract better fortunes ended in tragedy after two men drowned while allegedly conducting traditional rituals at Clydesdale Dam in Gweru.
The Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident which occurred on 24 February, when a group of 15 people — made up of 10 women and five men — visited the dam to carry out ritual activities.
“Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms two cases of sudden death in which two men drowned at Clydesdale dam in Gweru on 24 February, 2026. The now deceased men met their fate while allegedly carrying out traditional rituals,” he said.
According to police details, during the process, the two reportedly slipped beneath the water and failed to resurface, sending the group into panic.
Police, including members of the Sub Aqua Unit, attended the scene and later retrieved the bodies on 25 February 2026 at around 10AM.
One of the deceased has been identified as Philemon Matavire (46) of Woodlands, Gweru, while the second victim’s identity is yet to be established.
Mahoko warned members of the public against venturing into deep water bodies or flooded dams, stressing that such areas can quickly turn deadly.
“Once again, we remind members of the public not to take risks by venturing into deep water bodies or flooded rivers and dams,” he said.
