Tragedy in Nkayi: 13-Year-Old Boy Killed in Crocodile Attack While Swimming in Gweru River
Nkayi, Matabeleland North – March 2, 2025 – A tragic incident unfolded in Sibangilizwe Village, Nkayi District, after a 13-year-old boy, Louise Mpofu, lost his life in a crocodile attack while swimming in the Gweru River during a fishing expedition with friends.
The harrowing event took place when Louise, a Grade Five learner, and two of his friends from the village decided to take a swim after a fishing session. Their fun quickly turned into horror when a crocodile suddenly attacked Louise, dragging him underwater as he screamed for help.
Desperate Search Ends in Tragedy
According to Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda, the boy’s friends ran home to alert his father and other villagers. A search team immediately rushed to the river, but by the time they arrived at 3 PM, only Louise’s clothes were found on the riverbank.
Despite a thorough search, the boy’s body was not immediately located, forcing the villagers to resume the search the following day. The tragic discovery was made at 2 PM, approximately three kilometers downstream from where the attack had occurred.
“The body had a missing left leg and several crocodile bites on the right leg and waist,” said Insp Banda, confirming that the attack was fatal.
This incident has left the community in mourning, with calls for greater awareness about crocodile-infested waters and safety measures for villagers who rely on rivers for fishing and other daily activities.
Surviving a Crocodile Attack: Expert Advisory on Emergency Response
While crocodile attacks are rare but deadly, knowing how to respond in such a crisis can mean the difference between life and death. Here’s what you should do if you ever find yourself under attack by a crocodile:
1. Avoid High-Risk Areas
• Stay away from known crocodile-infested waters, especially in rivers, lakes, and swamps where crocodiles are common.
• Be cautious when fishing, bathing, or washing clothes near water bodies.
• Always be on the lookout for warning signs or local reports of crocodile activity.
2. What to Do if a Crocodile Attacks You
If a crocodile grabs you, immediate action is critical:
• Fight Back Aggressively
• Aim for the eyes, nostrils, and throat—these are the most sensitive areas.
• Use any available object, like a fishing rod, stick, or rock, to jab or hit the crocodile.
• If you have nothing, use your fingers to gouge its eyes.
• Prevent the “Death Roll”
• Crocodiles kill by biting and rolling their prey underwater to drown it.
• If caught, try to roll with the crocodile instead of resisting—this may reduce severe injuries.
• Hold Its Jaws Shut
• A crocodile’s bite force is strong, but its muscles to open its mouth are weak.
• If possible, hold the jaws shut and try to pry yourself free.
• Stay Above Water and Get to Shore
• If you can escape, swim away quickly but calmly to avoid attracting further attacks.
• Once on land, move as far away as possible—crocodiles can run short distances on land.
3. Emergency Response After an Attack
• Stop the Bleeding – If bitten, use cloth or a belt as a tourniquet to control bleeding.
• Seek Medical Help Immediately – Crocodile bites can cause severe infections due to bacteria in their mouths.
• Report the Incident – Alert local authorities or wildlife agencies to prevent future attacks.
4. Long-Term Safety Measures
• Educate children and community members about the dangers of swimming in crocodile-infested waters.
• Install warning signs and barriers near dangerous rivers.
• Work with wildlife authorities to monitor crocodile populations and relocate aggressive crocodiles.
Final Thoughts
The tragic death of Louise Mpofu is a painful reminder of the dangers posed by crocodile-infested waters. While Zimbabwean rivers provide essential resources for many communities, awareness and precautionary measures are vital to prevent further loss of life.
Authorities and communities must work together to enhance water safety education, introduce protective measures, and ensure safe access to natural water bodies.