By Victor Fanuel
MUTARE — Police have arrested two employees at a mission school in Penhalonga, Mutare, in connection with the drowning deaths of two Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners who died in a swimming pool tragedy last week.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the suspects, a maintenance supervisor and a caretaker, are facing culpable homicide charges following the June 11 incident.
In a statement on Wednesday, Nyathi said the victims had been identified by their guardians as Devian Andrew Mungazi (5) and Lovemore Tendedziso (6).
“Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police message on X platform regarding a drowning incident in which two Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners drowned in a swimming pool at a mission school in Penhalonga, Mutare on 11th June 2026,” Nyathi said.
Police said investigations have since resulted in the arrest of Charles Chigwizura (49), a maintenance supervisor, and Andrew Chingono (38), a caretaker.
“Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has arrested a maintenance supervisor, Charles Chigwizura (49) and caretaker, Andrew Chingono (38) for culpable homicide following the incident,” Nyathi said.
The deaths of the two young learners sparked public concern over safety standards at schools and recreational facilities, particularly where young children are involved.
Nyathi urged school authorities to strengthen safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.
“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,” he said.
Nyathi added that learning institutions should implement comprehensive safeguards around swimming pools and other potentially hazardous facilities.
“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,” he said.
Nyathi warned that negligence in maintaining safe environments for children could attract criminal liability.
“The public is reminded that negligence in maintaining safe environments for children may result in loss of life and criminal liability,” he said.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the drowning incident are continuing.
