Beitbridge Civil Protection Unit (CPU) successfully executed a rescue operation for a group of 11 individuals stranded on an island in the Limpopo River.
he group, returning from South Africa, found themselves trapped after the river swelled dramatically following heavy rainfall late Wednesday evening.
The sudden rise in water levels caught them off guard, leading to a perilous situation that left four of their companions stranded for over 10 hours.
Mrs. Sikhangezile Mafu Moyo, chairperson of the Beitbridge CPU, detailed the harrowing experience of the stranded group.
According to her, four individuals successfully managed to swim to safety that first night, but the remaining members were not so fortunate.
The rapid response by the police and a specialized search-and-rescue subcommittee was crucial in coordinating efforts to reach the stranded individuals.
Using a boat provided by the National Parks and Wildlife Authority, rescuers were able to bring four more people to safety, though the rescue operation continued into the following day as three individuals remained trapped on the island.
As the situation developed, relatives of the stranded individuals played a vital role in maintain morale.
Mr. Itayi Tavarwisa, a concerned family member, arrived on the scene equipped with food for those still trapped.
Using a makeshift method to bridge the distance, he threw the provisions tied to stones across the river to ensure that the stranded group could sustain themselves until help arrived.
Tavarwisa relayed that the trapped individuals were waiting for the waters to calm before they attempted to navigate their way back across the river into Zimbabwe safely.
Such events have prompted the CPU to issue urgent warnings about the dangers of crossing swollen rivers, especially during the rainy season when water levels are unpredictable.
The Civil Protection Unit continues to advocate for caution and awareness, urging individuals to consider the risks before attempting to cross waterways that have the potential to turn deadly in an instant.