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Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
A 74-YEAR-OLD villager was burnt beyond recognition while trying to put out a veld fire.
The incident happened at Silverstar Village 2 in Kadoma.
Mashonaland West Provincial police spokesman, Inspector Ian Kohwera, confirmed the incident.
Kohwera said Caritus Muchatibaya was among a group of villagers who were trying to put out the veld fire on Sunday.
The villagers initially put out the fire and returned to their homes.
“Moments later, the fire started again and Muchatibaya’ s garden caught fire, prompting her and some close relatives to rush out to try and put out the fire,” said Kohwera.
“When she got to her garden entrance, suddenly a wave of fire engulfed her.
“She was burnt beyond recognition.”
Kohwera said the other villagers tried to assist but could not save her.
“Though people have an obligation to put out veld fires, police would like to urge communities to have fire committees in place.
“Such committees must avoid including the elderly since they are prone to be victims as they cannot match the speed of the veld fires.”
Online Reporter