Tragedy struck in Matuga constituency, Kwale County, after an 18-year-old student drowned while swimming in the Vuga Dam in the Kwa Makoroma area.
Matuga Sub-County Police Commander Alex Chepsoi confirmed that the victim, identified as Ali Rajab, had gone swimming with three friends when the unfortunate incident occurred.
Ali Rajab was a Grade 9 student at Vuga Junior Secondary School within Matuga Sub-county.
Chepsoi said it took nearly seven hours for a combined team of security personnel and the Kenya Navy rescue unit to recover the body.
The rescue mission was hampered by the dam’s depth and vast size.
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He raised concerns over the rising number of drowning incidents involving students, particularly during school holidays.
“I urge parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during this holiday season to prevent such tragedies,” Chepsoi said.
He encouraged parents to ensure their children are kept occupied and away from hazardous places such as dams, rivers, and open pits.
He emphasised that keeping children safe is a collective responsibility shared among parents, schools, and the wider community.
Chepsoi further cautioned minors against wandering unsupervised and participating in activities that may put their lives at risk.
The deceased’s body was transferred to the Kwale County Hospital mortuary as investigations into the incident continue.
By Omar Shaban
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