A tragic lightning strike in Kawambwa District has claimed the life of one person and injured four others as they watched the retrieval of drowned bodies from the Lwena River. The incident occurred as a team was continuing search operations following a boat accident that claimed ten lives.
Luapula Province Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi confirmed the incident to Diamond Media, stating that the lightning struck as heavy rain began to pour while the recovery efforts were still underway. The sudden downpour created difficult conditions for both rescue personnel and onlookers, ultimately leading to the unfortunate event.
The deceased’s body has since been transported to the Kawambwa District Hospital mortuary, while the four injured individuals are receiving medical treatment at the same facility. Medical personnel have not disclosed the extent of their injuries, but authorities have assured the public that they are being monitored closely.
Meanwhile, the police have yet to provide an update on the recovery of the tenth missing body from the boat accident, which occurred in the early hours of the previous day. So far, nine bodies have been retrieved, and search teams are still combing the river in an effort to locate the last victim. The disaster has left the local community in mourning, with many calling for improved safety measures on the river.
This latest incident highlights the risks faced by both rescue teams and bystanders during such operations. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution, especially during adverse weather conditions, and to avoid gathering in unsafe locations during emergency response efforts. The double tragedy has left the Kawambwa community shaken, with many now calling for stricter enforcement of water safety regulations.
By Kalombe Kapambwe
