Tragedy struck a Zimbabwean family at Navaya village outside Beit Bridge, when their two daughters and a friend drowned in a well, police have said.

The local police spokesperson, Insp Bulisani Bhebhe, said the incident occurred on Friday, adding that all three the victims were from Navaya Village. The three victims, Tariro (9) and Fungai Gweshengwe (4) and their friend Rumbidzai Mineti (8) had gone to take a bath in a garden when they decided to swim in an unprotected water hole.

Tinotenda Mineti (4), who was with the three victims, rushed to call for help from other villagers, but they were unable to resuscitate them.

A report was made to the local police and the bodies of the three girls were taken to the local hospital mortuary. A local magistrate waived a post-mortem, as no foul play was suspected.

“We would like to urge parents to always keep children under the supervision of an adult as cases of people drowning have been on the increase, particularly during the rainy season,” said the police spokesperson.

According to Zimbabwean police, this year 51 people have drowned while bathing, swimming, fishing, fetching water and canoeing in the country.