Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
EFFORTS are underway to rescue a villager who is stranded on a tree along a flooded Tuli River in Gwanda, while the body of a woman suspected to have been swept away by the river is still missing.
Gwanda District Risk Reduction (DRR) focal person, Mr Awakhiwe Moyo, said the trapped villager spent the night on the tree, while three children have been rescued from the river.
“A rescue operation is underway after five people were reportedly trapped by a flooded river. Three children have been rescued alive and are receiving assistance. The mother is still missing, and search efforts are ongoing. One person is currently stranded on a tree, where they spent the night. The police have been notified and have dispatched a team to the scene to assess the situation,” he said.
The Gwanda District Civil Protection Committee has issued a stern warning against crossing flooded rivers to avoid loss of life. Mr Moyo said the district has been experiencing heavy rains for the past week, which have left many rivers flooded.
“We caution the public to exercise extreme caution as rivers are currently full due to heavy rainfall. Despite warnings, some individuals are recklessly attempting to cross flooded rivers, putting their lives at risk. The Zimbabwe Republic Police are fully deployed to enforce safety measures.
“Reports indicate that some individuals engaged in illegal mining are stranded in various areas of Gwanda due to flooded rivers. We implore everyone to prioritise their safety and well-being,” he said.
@DubeMatutu
