By Sukoluhle Ndlovu
Four schoolgirls aged between 13 and 15 drowned at Petra Dam in Chegutu after allegedly attempting to swim away from a group of seven people who confronted them over illegal fishing.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident which occurred on Sunday at Petra Farm, where the girls, who were Grade Six and Seven pupils, were reportedly fishing using a mosquito net.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating a suspected case of culpable homicide in which four schoolgirls, Letty Sedrick (14), Tadiwa Phiri (15), Faith Woda (13) and Mercy Tembo (14) drowned at Petra Dam, Petra Farm, Chegutu, on 18th October 2026 at around 2100 hours”.
Police said the girls were accompanied by two boys when seven suspects confronted them and accused them of illegal fishing.
One of the boys was allegedly assaulted with a switch and open hands as he attempted to flee. He managed to escape by swimming across the dam, while the second boy followed.
The four girls, who were left behind, are believed to have attempted to swim across the dam but failed to reach the other side.
Their bodies were recovered on Monday, October 19.
Two suspects, aged 16 and 19, have since been apprehended and are assisting police with investigations, while five others are still being sought.
Police warned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands.
“Members of the public should refrain from taking the law into their own hands. Any concerns regarding purported illegal activities should be reported to the police or relevant authorities for the law to take its course,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He also urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s movements, particularly at night, and discourage them from visiting dams and rivers after dark.
