Fruit-Picking Gone Wrong: Bulawayo Man’s Quest for Mangoes Ends In Death
A Bulawayo man met a tragic end on Saturday morning while picking mangoes from a neighbour’s tree. Oscar Mapurisa, 39, was electrocuted when a wire hook he was using accidentally touched a high-voltage ZESA cable.
A Sombre Day in Sizinda
The Sunday News reports that the incident unfolded near Maphisa Primary School in Bulawayo’s Sizinda suburb. Witnesses reported hearing screams before rushing to the scene. One neighbour, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the tragic sequence of events.
“We heard screaming and quickly responded,” the neighbour said. “He was trapped on the tree, and when I touched it, I felt a shock. I removed his shoes and later climbed the tree to bring his body down. His right arm was burnt.”
Residents gathered in shock outside the house, watching as police and Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) workers recorded witness statements.
A Day That Began With Joy
Earlier that day, Mapurisa had been seen enjoying a braai with his girlfriend, identified only as Princess, at a local spot called koRichard. A witness named Brian said he had spoken to Mapurisa shortly before the tragedy.
“I saw him with his girlfriend, and we exchanged a few words. I even asked him for a cigarette,” Brian said. “Minutes later, I heard about the incident. When I arrived, I realised it was Oscar.”
Brian added that Princess witnessed the electrocution and closed Mapurisa’s eyes in a heartbreaking gesture.
Police Confirm Investigation
Bulawayo’s acting police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the incident.
“I can confirm a case of sudden death involving a 39-year-old man who was electrocuted while picking mangoes. Investigations are underway,” said Asst Insp Msebele.
The tragedy has left the Sizinda community shaken, with residents cautioning against unsafe practices near power lines.
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The post Heartbreaking: Bulawayo Man’s Craving for Mangoes Ends In Shocking Death appeared first on iHarare News.
