By Nyasha Chuma
CHEGUTU — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a culpable homicide investigation following the drowning of four schoolgirls at Petra Dam, Petra Farm in Chegutu.
The victims have been identified as Letty Sedrick (14), Tadiwa Phiri (15), Faith Woda (13) and Mercy Tembo (14), all Grade Six and Seven pupils.
According to police, the tragedy occurred at around 2100 hours on 18 October 2026. The girls were reportedly fishing using a mosquito net when they were confronted by seven suspects who accused them of illegal fishing.
During the confrontation, a boy who was in the company of the girls was allegedly assaulted with a switch and open hands. He managed to escape by swimming across the dam. A second boy also swam across, leaving the four girls behind.
It is suspected the girls attempted to swim to safety but failed to reach the other side of the dam. Their bodies were retrieved from the water on 19 October 2026.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that two suspects, aged 16 and 19, have been arrested and are assisting police with investigations. Five other suspects are still at large.
Commenting on the incident, Commissioner Nyathi said:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s movements, whereabouts and activities, particularly at night. Children should be discouraged from visiting dams or rivers during the night.”
