Chikomba, Mashonaland East – In a heart-wrenching incident, the bodies of two five-year-old boys, Tanaka Mombeyarara and Tafadzwa Makamure, were discovered standing on the river bed of the Dora River, bleeding from the nose, after they drowned in a pool near Mombeyarara Village, Chief Chivese.

The Mashonaland East Provincial Police spokesperson, Simon Chazovachiyi, confirmed the tragic event, cautioning the public against playing near water bodies. “We are running awareness campaigns to educate people about the dangers of playing near water bodies. Parents should closely monitor their children and explain the risks associated with playing near water. Water is safe only for drinking,” Chazovachiyi stated.

The incident unfolded when the boys, who were playing at Tafadzwa’s parents’ homestead, managed to slip away unnoticed while Tafadzwa’s mother, Junior Mhukayesango, was busy with chores. Upon realizing the boys were missing, Mhukayesango searched the vicinity and found their clothes on the riverbank, leading to the grim discovery after the water was drained from the pool.

The community is grappling with the tragedy, with some villagers suggesting that dark spirits might inhabit the water, adding a layer of folklore to the sorrowful event.

As investigations continue, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance around natural water bodies, especially in rural settings where children’s play often extends to these areas.

Authorities are urging all guardians to heighten their supervision of children near any water source to prevent such accidents from recurring.