Two Men Marooned On Mutirikwi River Feared Dead

Two men who were marooned on an island along the Mutirikwi River downstream of Bangala Dam after their makeshift canoe capsized are now missing, with indications that they may have been swept away by strong currents.

Civil Protection Unit director Nathan Nkomo confirmed the development to The Midweek Watch, saying efforts are currently underway to locate their bodies. Said Nkomo:

“I can confirm receiving a report that two of the three marooned villagers have gone missing and our rescue teams are on the ground searching for their bodies.”

Nkomo urged the public to stay away from flooded rivers during the rainy season. He said:

“The public is strongly warned not to attempt crossing flooded rivers or streams during this rainy period.

“Flood waters are extremely dangerous and can rise suddenly, sweeping away people, vehicles, and livestock.”

One of the three people who were marooned, a woman, was rescued by the ZRP Sub-Aqua Unit on Thursday afternoon.

The rescued woman reportedly spent a terrifying, chilly night in a tree after their tree-bark canoe capsized.

She took refuge in the branches to protect herself from crocodiles and hippos, which are known to frequent that part of the river.

The canoe went down on Wednesday, 11 March, around 4 PM, as the three attempted to travel from Zaka to Renco Mine.

Related:

How did a “50 PAX” ferry end up carrying 174 people to their deaths? How Many People Were On Board The Mbuya Nehanda Boat When It Capsized?