The destroyed shack where the four squatters where sleeping
TellZim reporter
MASVINGO – A squatter in the gum tree area close to Mucheke River was killed during heavy rains last Saturday night after a giant tree fell on top of the shack in which he was sleeping with three others.
Police confirmed that one person had died in the accident while the other three sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Masvingo General Hospital the following morning.
“It is sad. We urge people to call either the police or fire brigade in time to save lives wherever possible. Locals are also advised to give help where possible as they await the arrival of emergency teams,” said acting police spokesperson for Masvingo Province; Assistant Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa.
Names of the victims could not immediately be unveiled as their next of kin had not yet been informed by the time of writing.
Ward 1 Councillor; Garcia Mundondo, under whose ward the squatter settlement is located, said he was saddened by the accident.
“I visited the place after the accident and what I witnessed was very sad indeed. I will keep advocating for proper housing facilities for these squatters in council and I hope council will hear my plea as such accidents are not acceptable in an organised society,” Mundondo said.
Locals are however blamed government for failing to ensure that the less privileged are properly housed so as to avoid the emergence of squatter camps.news
