A seven-year-old girl of Washeni Village in Chief Tungati’s Chiefdom has drowned after falling into a well while playing with her siblings.
Disclosing the matter to to the media in a statement, Northern Province Police Deputy Commanding Officer, Charles Mbita identified the deceased as Odenia Katuta.
Dr Mbita revealed that the incident occurred on May 14, 2026, around 16:00 hours, and that the matter was reported to Luwingu Police Station at 17:15 hours by the child’s grandfather, Alimagasi Mwape, aged 65.
He said preliminary investigations revealed that the juvenile was playing by jumping across the top of a covered well when the lid gave way, causing her to fall inside and drown.
He said police officers visited the scene and retrieved the body, no foul play was suspected, and the family has since been advised to proceed with burial arrangements.
Dr Mbita expressed concern over the increasing number of drowning incidents linked to uncovered or poorly secured wells.
“It is particularly unfortunate that barely a month ago, another child lost a life in similar circumstances. These are preventable tragedies that should not continue recurring in our communities,” he said.
The Deputy Commanding Officer strongly condemned negligence by individuals and property owners who leave wells uncovered or insecure, thereby exposing children to danger.
“We urge all community members to take immediate responsibility by properly covering, fencing, or securing wells and other hazardous structures within residential areas,” Dr Mbita emphasised.
He further appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor children during playtime and educate them on the dangers of playing near wells.
Dr Mbita reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to safeguarding lives and called upon local authorities and community leaders to work together in preventing such avoidable tragedies.
Comment:sad development and negligency on part of the family.