Two young people die from suffocation in Mpika well incident

Two young people, aged between 15 and 25, have tragically died from suffocation after being rescued from a deep well in Mpika by the town council’s fire brigade.

The victims, identified as Robby Silwenga (aged 15–20) and Musonda Silwenga (aged 22–25), were digging a well over 25 metres deep in Kuku Compound, Mpika District.

They became trapped due to oxygen depletion and were rescued by firefighters, but sadly died upon arrival at Michael Chilufya Sata Hospital.

Mushota Mpundu, the council’s Public Relations Officer, said in a statement on Sunday that despite the swift response by the Mpika Fire Brigade, the victims could not be saved.

“Both victims were successfully retrieved and handed over to the police. However, the tragic incident resulted in the loss of two young lives as they were pronounced dead upon arrival at Michael Chilufya Sata Hospital,” Mpundu said.

Divisional Fire Officer, Reuben Mukonde, urged the public to avoid entering deep wells without safety measures, as oxygen levels in such confined spaces can quickly fall to dangerous levels.

He advised that professional assistance should be sought immediately in emergencies.

“This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions and the need to seek professional help in times of emergency,” Mukonde stated.

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