A 45-year-old woman of Mchini Compound in Chipata District has died after falling into a pit latrine.
A tragic incident occurred in the Mchini Compound of Chipata District, where a 45-year-old woman named Flata Tembo lost her life after falling into a pit latrine. The unfortunate event took place on a Friday night, between 21:00 and 22:00 hours, as Tembo went to use the latrine. According to Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba, the ground surrounding the latrine collapsed, leading to the fatal fall. Despite the desperate attempts made by her husband, Yusuf Phiri, to rescue her, their efforts were in vain. It is believed that Tembo succumbed to suffocation, having inhaled hazardous gases that can accumulate in such confined spaces. Following the incident, a team comprising fire brigade and police officers was dispatched to the scene to retrieve her body. The recovery efforts were carried out with urgency, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Once her body was recovered, it was taken to the Chipata Central Hospital mortuary, where it remains pending burial arrangements. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with inadequate sanitation facilities.
