A two-year-old boy tragically lost his life after drowning in a stream at Mponono on Wednesday.
According to sources close to the matter, the toddler had been playing near the stream with other children under the care of their grandmother when the incident occurred.
It is alleged that the grandmother briefly left the children unattended.
Upon her return, she reportedly discovered the child floating in the stream.
She immediately raised the alarm, attracting the attention of neighbours who then contacted the police.
Police transported the child’s body to the mortuary.
Acting Chief Police Information and Communications Officer, Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni, confirmed the incident.
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The tragedy marks the second drowning incident reported within a five-day period in the country.
Police in Pigg’s Peak have opened an inquiry following the drowning of a 38-year-old man of Mahlabatsini.
The man drowned while attempting to cross the Phophonyane River on March 6 at around 7pm.
He was transported to Pigg’s Peak Government Hospital, where he was certified dead on arrival.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has since urged Emaswati to exercise caution around rivers, dams and other water bodies.
“It is important to always remain alert when swimming, crossing rivers or when near water bodies. If you cannot swim or are intoxicated, do not attempt to enter a swimming pool, river or dam as you will be putting your life at risk,” said the police service.
The REPS further noted that drowning incidents continue to be recorded across the country, describing the trend as a growing cause for concern.
