CAPTAIN Lariane Jonker, spokesperson for the SAPS Cradock Cluster has confirmed two cases where people have drowned in Middelburg after the recent heavy rainfall.
The usually dry Klein Brak River (which runs between Middelburg and Lusaka) flowed strongly for a day or two after recent rainfall caused a weir to give way on a farm situated upstream from town.
Large pools of stagnant water remained after most stormwater dissipated.
The body of an adult woman was retrieved from the water last week. The woman allegedly drowned while under the influence of alcohol.
A five-year-old child also drowned over the weekend after stepping into a deep hole while playing in shallow water.
The pools of water remain a popular playground for local youngsters.
Tomorrow (Friday, February 22), Middelburg SAPS will host an awareness campaign in Lusaka and KwaNonzame to engage with residents on water safety, specifically at the river.
The campaign will take place between 14:00 en 16.00.
Lusaka resident and IYM Councillor Monde Desha expressed his sympathy with the families of the deceased.
“My sincerest condolences to the family of the five-year-old boy who drowned. I would like to urge parents to know the whereabouts of their children at all times.
“It is imperative that our children be taught swimming skills in our school. We need swimming facilities in our town.”
