Beitbridge boy (13) poisons river
Beitbridge boy (13) poisons river – Residents of at least five villages in Ward 7, Mutetenwa, Beitbridge, have been left in shock after a 13-year-old boy allegedly poured a toxic herbicide into a river that serves as a crucial water source for both people and livestock.
The incident, which occurred last Monday, has already caused the d€ath of fish and at least one donkey, raising serious health concerns in the community.
Community Leaders Raise Alarm
Speaking to Herald, Nelson Mohadi, the senior village head of Mutetenwa, confirmed that the community is in a state of p@nic.
He stated that the authorities, including the police and the local Civil Protection Committee, have been informed, and villagers have been advised against using the contaminated water.
“We urge everyone to refrain from drinking or using the river water until official tests confirm the extent of the damage,” Mohadi said.
Kraal head Siphiwe Muleya, from Tshambudzi, where the boy lives, also emphasized the need for caution. She revealed that local authorities are working with the police to determine the motive behind the teenager’s actions.
“We recovered the herbicide container, which has been handed over to agricultural experts for verification. Investigations are ongoing, and the boy’s parents have been notified,” Muleya explained.
To prevent further harm, dead fish have been buried, and villagers have been warned against fishing or consuming anything from the river.
Eyewitness Account
Nyelisani Sibanda, a communal farmer from the La Tenis area, was among the first to notice something was wrong. She reported that the water had turned purple and fish were dying mysteriously.
“I was working in my field near the river when I noticed the strange color. Shortly after, fish started floating dead on the surface. I immediately alerted our traditional leaders, who warned the community,” Sibanda recounted.
She added that some livestock were chased away before they could drink the contaminated water, but unfortunately, one donkey did not survive.
Authorities Investigate the Crisis
Chief Superintendent Melusi Ncube, the Officer Commanding Beitbridge District, confirmed that a police team is investigating the matter in collaboration with the Civil Protection Committee. The exact herbicide used is still being analyzed by experts.
In the meantime, community leaders continue to warn villagers to avoid the river until it is declared safe.
