By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
Kariba — A woman is missing and feared dead following a recent shocking crocodile attack while fishing near Ume Crocodile Farm.
This incident, which occurred approximately 1.5 kilometers from the farm, has left the local community in mourning.
The victim, identified as Petronela Gwangwawa, was reportedly snatched from the shore in full view of horrified onlookers.
Her brother-in-law, Mathew Muleya confirmed incident. He said he was advising after the incident happened.
“I heard to run to the river but it was too late. The crocodile had already dragged her into the water.”
As of today, the search for Gwangwawa has entered its fifth day, with Parks and Wildlife Management officials working alongside local volunteers and community members to locate her body.
The tragic event has reignited concerns about the safety of lakeside communities, especially given a series of fatal incidents in recent months.
Just last month, a person went missing after a boat capsized during a storm, and in November 2019, two fishermen drowned when a powerful wave overturned their fishing rig.
The community is reeling from this latest tragedy. “This is devastating,” said a resident. “She had already gone through so much. We are heartbroken.”
Two women who were fishing with Gwangwawa shared their grief. “We were just having a good time, and then everything changed in an instant,” one woman lamented. “It’s a scary reminder that we need to be more aware of our surroundings.”
Another woman added, “We’ve lost a dear friend. We must advocate for better safety measures on the lake to ensure this doesn’t happen again. No one should have to fear for their life while fishing.”
As the search continues, local residents are increasingly calling for enhanced safety measures, including increased patrols, the installation of crocodile warning signs, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate risks posed by wildlife in and around Lake Kariba.
The community remains united in its grief and determination to prevent further tragedies.
Padenga Agribusiness has chipped in as part of their corporate social responsibility by alerting the police sub acqua unit and Zimparks of the tragedy and providing fuel for the boat used in the search effort.
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