Police have expressed concern over the rise in drowning cases countrywide with 483 cases recorded in 2020 compared to 411 cases in 2019.
In a press statement on Wednesday, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi advised members of the public to be safety conscious as the rain season is still continuing. The statement read:
The Zimbabwe Republic Police reports that the country recorded a total of 483 cases of drowning for the period January to December 2020, compared to 411 cases recorded during the same period in 2019.
Of the 483 cases recorded in the year 2020, 26 cases were recorded in Harare, 7 in Bulawayo, 54 in Midlands, 55 in Manicaland, 55 in Masvingo, 30 in Mat North, 31 in Mat South, 58 in Mash East, 70 in Mash Central and 97 in Mash West.
In January 2021, a total of 59 cases of drowning were recorded in the country, compared to 71 cases recorded during the same period, in 2020.
It has been observed that more males drowned compared to females. In January 2021, 49 males drowned compared to 10 females.
Cases of drowning occur mostly when people attempt to cross flooded rivers, streams and other water points.
Children are drowning whilst playing or swimming in rivers, trenches and other water sources whilst some adults engage in fishing escapades using dingy boats or crafts which are not safe.
We also have people who try to cross rivers and streams using homemade boats and in the process drown.
As the rainy season is still continuing, the Police urge the public to be safety conscious and avoid crossing, fishing or allowing children to play in water bodies.