By A Correspondent -Four schoolgirls aged between 13 and 15 have drowned at Petra Dam in Chegutu following a suspected confrontation over illegal fishing, with police arresting two suspects as investigations continue.

The victims, identified as Letty Sedrick (14), Tadiwa Phiri (15), Faith Woda (13) and Mercy Tembo (14), were Grade Six and Seven pupils who reportedly died on Sunday, October 18, at around 9pm at Petra Farm.

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the girls were allegedly fishing with a mosquito net when they were confronted by seven suspects who accused them of engaging in illegal fishing.

The encounter reportedly turned violent when one of the boys accompanying the girls attempted to flee. He was allegedly assaulted with a switch and open hands before escaping by swimming across the dam.

Another boy reportedly followed him, leaving the four girls behind. Police suspect the girls subsequently attempted to swim across the dam but failed to reach the opposite bank.
Their bodies were recovered on Monday, October 19, as the tragic incident triggered investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

In a statement dated October 20, the police said they were investigating a suspected case of culpable homicide in connection with the incident.

Two suspects, aged 16 and 19, have been arrested and are assisting investigators, while police continue searching for five others allegedly linked to the case.

The incident has raised serious questions about the circumstances in which the children found themselves at the dam at night and the events that unfolded during the alleged confrontation.

The ZRP has urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to their children’s movements and activities, particularly after dark.

“Parents and guardians should closely monitor their children’s movements, whereabouts and activities, particularly at night,” police said, warning against allowing children to visit dams and rivers during nighttime hours.

Police also advised parents to discourage children from going to water bodies at night, highlighting the dangers associated with such activities.

Investigations into the deaths are continuing, with five suspects still being sought by law enforcement authorities.