Zim GBC News | Environment and Community<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Masvingo \u2013 A desperate search is underway on the Mutirikwi River after two men went missing when their makeshift canoe capsized, with authorities fearing they may have been swept away by strong currents. A woman who was with them survived a terrifying night in a tree, shielding herself from crocodiles and hippos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 11 March, around 4 PM, downstream of Bangala Dam as the three individuals attempted to cross from Zaka to Renco Mine. Their fragile vessel, constructed from tree bark, was no match for the powerful currents, capsizing and plunging them all into the crocodile-infested waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While two of the occupants disappeared, the woman managed to swim to safety and take refuge in the branches of a tree. She spent a harrowing, chilly night there, protecting herself from the wildlife known to frequent that stretch of the river.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Her ordeal came to an end on Thursday afternoon when she was rescued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Sub-Aqua Unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nathan Nkomo, Director of the Civil Protection Unit, confirmed the grim turn of events to The Midweek Watch, stating that the focus has now shifted from rescue to recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI can confirm receiving a report that two of the three marooned villagers have gone missing and our rescue teams are on the ground searching for their bodies,\u201d said Nkomo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The incident has prompted an urgent warning from the Civil Protection Unit to the public as the rainy season continues. Mr. Nkomo emphasized the extreme danger posed by flooded rivers, which can become deceptively powerful in a short space of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe public is strongly warned not to attempt crossing flooded rivers or streams during this rainy period,\u201d he urged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cFlood waters are extremely dangerous and can rise suddenly, sweeping away people, vehicles, and livestock.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rescue and recovery teams remain on the scene, combing the riverbanks and downstream areas in the hope of locating the two missing men. The search operation highlights the perilous journeys many Zimbabweans undertake, often with limited means, and the deadly risks posed by the country’s swollen waterways during the storm season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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