Llangollen, Wales – A 47-year-old Zimbabwean man, Clifford Sibanda, who was reported missing last Saturday, has been found dead in the northern Welsh town of Llangollen. Police have confirmed that his body was recovered from the River Dee, near the Chainbridge Hotel.
Sibanda, originally from Nkayi in Matabeleland North, had been residing in the United Kingdom for nearly 25 years. He was reported missing after walkers discovered his backpack, train ticket, and bank cards on a rock along the River Dee. These items were promptly handed over to the authorities.
A spokesperson for North Wales Police stated on Wednesday: “Whilst formal identification is yet to take place, his family are being supported by specialist officers and the local coroner has been informed.”
In their initial appeal for information, police indicated that Sibanda, who was from Birkenhead near Liverpool, was believed to have travelled to Llangollen on Saturday, March 8, taking a bus from Chester Train Station. It is thought he had been near the river, close to the Chainbridge Hotel.
Police also revealed that among the items found were clothes believed to be what Sibanda wore to the location, suggesting he had changed into swimming trunks before entering the water.
A post-mortem examination has been ordered to determine the cause of death, with possible drowning being considered.
Sibanda’s family have expressed their bewilderment at the circumstances surrounding his death. Speaking to ZimLive, they stated they had “no idea what he was doing at the river.” They also highlighted that he was a “decent swimmer,” raising questions about what dangers might have been present in the river that prevented him from reaching safety.
Sibanda’s ex-wife lives in Birmingham, England, with their seven-year-old twin children. The family is currently receiving support from specialist officers during this difficult time.
The discovery of Sibanda’s body brings a tragic end to the search, but leaves many unanswered questions for his loved ones. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine the precise circumstances leading to his death.
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