A 75-year-old woman lost her life in a devastating fire at her homestead in Mberengwa, Midlands Province, last week.
The incident, which occurred on October 7th at Village Mhlabeni under Chief Chizungu, has left the community reeling. Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the tragic details, painting a picture of a sudden and unexpected loss.
“We confirm having received a report of sudden death where a 75-year-old woman was burnt to death in an inferno,” Inspector Mahoko stated.
He explained the circumstances leading to the fatal fire, highlighting the devastating role of an unforeseen gust of wind.
“It is alleged that Anna Siziba (75) and her sister Lilian Nungu (78) prepared some tea in a grass thatched hut and did not put out the fire. The two sat outside the hut whilst drinking tea. A whirlwind blew through the yard and some strands of thatching grass, which were in the hut, caught fire resulting in the whole hut being burnt,” he detailed.
The swift escalation of the fire trapped Ms. Siziba inside the burning hut. Despite her attempt to extinguish the flames, the inferno quickly overwhelmed her.
“Siziba went inside the hut in a bid to put off the fire, but the inferno engulfed her and burnt her beyond recognition,” Inspector Mahoko said while emphasising the ferocity of the blaze.
The tragic outcome underscores the inherent dangers associated with open fires, particularly in structures made of highly flammable materials.
The aftermath of the fire left Ms. Siziba’s body severely damaged.
“The body was ferried to Zvishavane District Hospital,” Inspector Mahoko reported.
The loss of Ms. Siziba has deeply affected her family and the wider community. The incident highlights the vulnerability of elderly individuals in such situations, and the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.
Inspector Mahoko’s statement also served as a public service announcement, urging caution in the use of open fires.
Insp Mahoko reminded members of the public of the need to always be cautious when using open fire at their homes.
