By Kevin Tafara
Four schoolgirls aged between 13 and 15 drowned at Petra Dam in Chegutu after allegedly being confronted by a group of seven suspects who accused them of illegal fishing.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the deaths of Letty Sedrick (14), Tadiwa Phiri (15), Faith Woda (13) and Mercy Tembo (14), who drowned at Petra Dam, Petra Farm, on Sunday, 18 October 2026, at around 9pm.
In a press statement issued on 20 October 2026, the ZRP said it was investigating a suspected case of culpable homicide in connection with the incident.
The victims, who were Grade Six and Seven pupils, were reportedly fishing using a mosquito net when they were confronted by seven suspects who accused them of illegal fishing.
According to the ZRP, one of the boys accompanying the girls was allegedly assaulted with a switch and open hands when he attempted to flee.
The police said the boy managed to escape by swimming across the dam, while another boy also followed, leaving the four girls in the water.
“The four girls are suspected to have attempted to swim across the dam but failed to reach the other side,” the ZRP said.
Their bodies were recovered on Monday, 19 October 2026.
The ZRP said two suspects, aged 16 and 19, had been arrested and were assisting police with investigations, while five others were still being sought.
The incident has raised concerns about children’s safety around dams and other water bodies, particularly at night.
The police urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s movements, whereabouts and activities.
“The ZRP urges parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s movements, whereabouts and activities, particularly at night,” the statement said.
The police also warned that children should be discouraged from visiting dams or rivers during the night.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.