Fishing expedition ends in tragedy

The victim, an 11-year-old boy, was reportedly fishing at Kana River with four friends when the crocodile pounced.
The Matabeleland North acting police spokesperson, Sergeant Eglon Nkala, confirmed the fatal attack yesterday.
“The boy, from Japiwa Village, under Chief Mabhikwa, was fishing with four others, aged eight, nine, 13 and 20 in the flooded river on Saturday afternoon. He decided to go into the water, leaving his friends on the river’s bank,” said Sgt Nkala.
He said the boy was busy washing his face when a crocodile suddenly appeared and snatched him away.
“The crocodile dragged him into the water. When the other boys saw what was happening they fled into the village, where they notified their parents and the police,” said Sgt Nkala.
He said villagers and the police quickly organised a rescue party and rushed to the river.
“Unfortunately, they were too late. They found the boy’s body on the river bank and the crocodile was nowhere to be seen,” said Sgt Nkala.
He advised people to keep away from flooded rivers and deep water bodies.
“Such places are usually infested with crocodiles. Parents should teach their children not to play in or near them,” said Sgt Nkala.