MUTARE – A maintenance supervisor and a caretaker at Hartzell Central Primary School have been arrested and charged with culpable homicide after two early childhood development (ECD) learners drowned in the school’s swimming pool in Penhalonga, Mutare, on June 11.
Maintenance supervisor Charles Chigwizura, 49, and caretaker Andrew Chingono, 38, are set to appear in court on Thursday.
Police said the victims had been identified by their guardians as five-year-old Devian Andrew Mungazi, and six-year-old Lovemore Tendedziso of Hobhouse 3, Mutare.
It has been reported that the swimming pool has been out of service for more than two decades, and access was restricted.
Hartzell Central Primary is a United Methodist Church mission school.
National police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi used a statement on Wednesday to renew an appeal to schools, parents and guardians to tighten safety measures around recreational facilities.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges school authorities, parents and guardians to ensure that playgrounds and recreational facilities are adequately secured and constantly monitored to prevent avoidable tragedies,” the statement said.
“Learning institutions should put in place safety measures including fencing of swimming pools, access control systems and deployment of trained personnel to supervise children during recreational activities.”
Police further warned that institutions found wanting could face legal consequences.
“The public is reminded that negligence in maintaining safe environments for children may result in loss of life and criminal liability,” Nyathi warned.
