By TellZim Reporter
A 72-year-old man from Kupuka Village under Chief Mazungunye in Bikita drowned on the morning of July 15, 2025, while gathering firewood along the Mijuche River.
Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the drowning of Murindiwa Peter Zivanai and urged people to exercise extreme caution near rivers and other water bodies.
“I confirm the death of Zivanai from Kupuka Village in Bikita. We advise members of the public to avoid walking or working near dangerous water areas to prevent such unfortunate tragedies,” said Patinyu.
Zivanai left home at around 08:00 hours, leaving his wife, Senzeni Ruzive (64), behind. Hours later, a woman from the same village discovered his lifeless body lying on the riverbank, with a bundle of firewood by his side.
Zivanai’s palms had struggle marks, and the riverbank showed slippery marks, suggesting he had lost balance and slipped into the water. It is suspected he drowned while attempting to cross over the spillway.
His body was retrieved and taken to Silveira Mission Hospital Mortuary, where it is currently awaiting a postmortem.
