In a heartbreaking incident in Kitwe, Copperbelt Province, a nine-year-old girl lost her life while eagerly awaiting the arrival of the much-anticipated Giant Cold Box.
The girl, identified as Agness Bunda from Old Ndeke, drowned in the Kafue River while swimming with friends, who were all excited to witness the spectacle that had drawn a crowd to the Kafue Bridge in Luangwa Township.
A Fatal Attempt to Retrieve a Slipper
Agness was swimming in the river when her slipper fell into the water. In an attempt to retrieve it, she jumped into the crocodile-infested river, where she was quickly swept away by the current.
Witnesses reported seeing her struggling and shouting for help before disappearing beneath the surface.
Copperbelt police commanding officer Peacewell Mweemba confirmed the tragic incident and identified Agness as the victim.
He stated that an inquiry had been opened and that relatives had been notified as the search for her body continued.
Previous Fatality Related to Cold Box Arrival
Agness’ death marks the second fatality linked to the arrival of the Giant Cold Box from Walvis Bay in Namibia.
Earlier, 20-year-old Nelson Soko died after falling off a moving truck in Livingstone while trying to get a better view of the slow-moving vehicle.
Mweemba reported that Agness was seen waving her hands in distress before the current carried her away.
Despite efforts by both the fire brigade and police to recover her body, their attempts have so far been unsuccessful.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Kitwe City Council public relations manager Mwaka Nakweti confirmed that Agness drowned around 11:00 AM and emphasized that search efforts are ongoing.
The community is mourning this tragic loss, which serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with swimming in hazardous waters.
As residents continue to prepare for the arrival of the Giant Cold Box, their excitement is overshadowed by this tragic incident, highlighting the need for increased safety awareness around water bodies.
Source: Kalemba