Four schoolgirls drown in Chegutu dam after confrontation over “illegal” fishing

Police are investigating the drowning of four schoolgirls in Chegutu on Sunday as a suspected case of culpable homicide.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said on Tuesday that the girls — Letty Sedrick (14), Tadiwa Phiri (15), Faith Woda (13) and Mercy Tembo (14) — drowned at Petra Dam at Petra Farm in Chegutu at around 9 pm.

The victims were Grade Six and Seven pupils.

Nyathi said they were reportedly fishing with a mosquito net when they were confronted by seven suspects who accused them of fishing illegally.

“One of the boys accompanying the girls was allegedly assaulted with a switch and open hands when he attempted to flee,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

“He escaped and swam across the dam, while another boy followed, leaving the four girls behind in the water.

“They are suspected to have attempted to swim across the dam but failed to reach the other side.

“The four girls’ bodies were recovered on 19th October 2026. Two suspects, aged 16 and 19, have been apprehended and are assisting police with investigations, while five others are being sought.”

Commissioner Nyathi urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s movements and activities, particularly at night.

He said children should be discouraged from visiting dams or rivers after dark.

He also urged members of the public not to take the law into their own hands, saying any concerns about alleged illegal activities should be reported to the police or relevant authorities.

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