RUNDU – A 24-year-old woman, Choma Albertina Ndumba was on Thursday attacked and killed by a crocodile at Mabushe village.

Another vicious attack involving a 14-year-old Mwambu Edward Katjire was reported on Sunday at Shadjunu, both villages are in Kavango East.

According to the police, Ndumba’s body has not been discovered yet as the authorities are still searching the river while the body of Katjire was discovered in pieces.

An adult male was also attacked along the Kavango River by a hippo on Thursday last week at Shamvura village, but he managed to escape with some serious wounds and was rushed to Nyangana hospital where he was reported to have been admitted.

“It’s alleged that Martin Tutauke Mukerenge (43) and a resident of Shamvura village went to the river alone, while in his canoe, a hippo attacked it and it capsized. The victim fell into the water. The hippo continued attacking and, in the process, it bit him breaking his arm, and on his head causing a bite wound. The victim was rushed to Nyangana distric hospital where he was later transferred to Rundu Intermediate hospital,’’ said acting police regional commander for Kavango East, Eino Nambahu.

“These incidents are regrettable as we do not wish to lose human lives because of wildlife. We will assess the situation while at the scene also including establishing how to provide support to the family and community during this difficult time,’’ said the environment ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda. 

“We urge, especially residents residing alongside the river streams to always approach rivers with caution. By all means, avoid using rivers during the evening or at night,’’ he noted.

- jmuyamba@nepc.com.na