Two Junior Primary School learners have tragically drowned after being swept away by floodwaters in Msambeta Stream in Area 23, Lilongwe.
Kawale Police Station spokesperson Mabvuto Phiri confirmed the incident, identifying the victims as Lonjedzo Fredrick (9), from Gundazuwa Village in Traditional Authority Kaphuka, Dedza District, and Curthbert Pius (8), from Saiwa Village in Traditional Authority Makwangwala, Ntcheu District.
According to Phiri, the incident occurred on January 5, 2026, shortly after the two knocked off from school.
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“Since the two lived in the same neighborhood, they decided to go out to play, which led them to Msambeta stream. They found the stream flooded, and in an attempt to cross it, they were swept away by the strong current,” said Phiri.
Police said reports of the missing children were received and a search was immediately launched. A few days later, the lifeless bodies of the two were discovered floating in the same stream.
“The matter was reported to police, and officers visited the scene and later transported the bodies to Kamuzu Central Hospital for postmortem examinations,” Phiri added.
Postmortem results from Kamuzu Central Hospital confirmed that the cause of death was asphyxia due to drowning.
Following the incident, police have issued a warning to parents and guardians to take extra care of their children during the rainy season.
“We are advising parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and stop them from playing around swollen rivers and streams to prevent similar tragic incidents,” said Phiri.
The tragedy has left the Area 23 community in shock, as residents continue to mourn the loss of the two young learners.