By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | In the quiet village of Somerai in Mberengwa, the morning sun bathed Mundi Dam in a warm glow as Thokozile Gumbo, a mother and wife, embarked on what should have been a routine task—fetching water from the familiar waters of the dam. Around 11 am, the tranquil scene took a devastating turn when a lurking predator, a crocodile concealed beneath the surface, launched its deadly attack.

While Thokozile’s husband, Adrine Moyo, gathered firewood nearby, he remained unaware of the tragedy that was unfolding. Upon returning an hour later, he noticed his wife’s absence and hurried to the dam, only to find a group of villagers gathered in shock. They delivered the heartbreaking news—his beloved Thokozile had been dragged into the water by a crocodile. Hours later, her lifeless body was recovered, her right leg fractured, and vicious bite marks etched into her thighs, marking the gruesome end to what had begun as a simple, daily chore.

Sadly, Thokozile’s story is just one of many in Zimbabwe, where crocodile attacks are a constant threat near water bodies. These apex predators, often concealed in murky waters, strike with terrifying speed and force. Here are five similar tragedies that have left a lasting impact on their communities:

1. Kariba, 2019 – Fisherman’s Last Stand

In 2019, a fisherman near Lake Kariba found himself face-to-face with a massive crocodile while casting his nets. As the reptile lunged, the man fought desperately, using his fishing rod as a weapon. His shouts for help echoed across the lake, but the struggle was over before anyone could reach him. His body was found the following day, bearing deep bite marks that told the grim story of his final moments. Expert Safety Suggestion: When fishing, especially in crocodile-prone areas, always work in pairs or groups. The presence of more people can deter crocodiles, and you will have assistance in case of an attack.

2. Binga, 2021 – School Children’s Fear

In Binga, 2021, a group of schoolchildren was collecting water from the Zambezi River when one of the girls was attacked by a crocodile. Her classmates watched in horror as the reptile dragged her beneath the water. Despite efforts from locals to find her, her body was never recovered. Expert Safety Suggestion: Crocodiles are often most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Avoid water sources at these times, especially for activities like bathing or fetching water, which require being close to the water’s edge.

3. Chiredzi, 2017 – A Farmer’s Final Harvest

A Chiredzi farmer, tending to his maize fields by the banks of the Runde River in 2017, was caught off-guard by a crocodile lying in wait among the reeds. While filling a bucket from the river, the predator lunged, locking its jaws around his legs. Despite his cries for help, the attack was swift and deadly. Expert Safety Suggestion: Always keep a lookout for crocodile signs when near water bodies. Crocodiles may lie in wait in shallow waters or even on riverbanks. Keeping a safe distance is crucial.

4. Victoria Falls, 2016 – The Tourist’s Nightmare

In 2016, a tourist visiting the majestic Victoria Falls decided to venture too close to the Zambezi River for a photograph. Unbeknownst to her, a crocodile had been watching from the shadows of the water. As she knelt by the riverbank, the crocodile struck. Quick action from her companions saved her life, but she was left with severe injuries to her legs. Expert Safety Suggestion: Tourists unfamiliar with crocodile territory should heed local guides’ warnings. Avoid the water’s edge and refrain from swimming or wading in rivers and dams, especially where crocodiles are known to inhabit.

5. Muzarabani, 2018 – The Tragedy of the Fishing Trip

A group of fishermen in Muzarabani had set out on a seemingly peaceful fishing trip along the Musengezi River in 2018. As one of them waded into the water to secure the boat, a crocodile attacked, dragging the man into the depths. His friends could only watch in horror as the reptile’s powerful jaws sealed his fate. Expert Safety Suggestion: Boaters and fishermen should remain vigilant when entering and exiting boats, as crocodiles often lie in wait near shallow waters. Using designated boat ramps or areas known to be free of crocodiles can significantly reduce the risk of attacks.

Expert Safety Suggestions to Prevent Future Attacks:

1. Stay Vigilant Near Water: Crocodiles are stealthy hunters and can remain completely submerged while they stalk their prey. Always assume that water bodies, especially rivers and dams, may harbor crocodiles.
2. Avoid Water Sources at Dawn and Dusk: Crocodiles are most active during these times. Fetching water or fishing during daylight hours, when visibility is better, can reduce the likelihood of encounters.
3. Keep a Safe Distance: Never stand or kneel at the water’s edge. Crocodiles can launch themselves out of the water at surprising speeds and distances.
4. Travel in Groups: Whether fishing, fetching water, or boating, working in groups offers safety in numbers. It’s more difficult for crocodiles to target groups, and in the event of an attack, help is immediately available.
5. Respect Warning Signs and Local Knowledge: In areas known for crocodile activity, locals and authorities often post warning signs. Always take these seriously and heed advice from those familiar with the area.

Thokozile’s tragic death is a reminder of the lurking dangers in Zimbabwe’s waterways. While the beauty of these natural resources is undeniable, so too is the need for constant vigilance and respect for the powerful predators that call them home. The stories of those who have fallen victim to crocodile attacks should serve as both a cautionary tale and a call for greater awareness in communities living near these waters.