Embu: Man drowns while attempting to prove he knows how to swim

Dennis Mutugi had trekked over three kilometers from his home after telling his friend, Elias Njeru, that he is a good swimmer, according to Assistant Chief Ngerwe sub-location.

Mutugi stripped off his clothes and dove into the river to prove his claims.

According to the administrator, his friend waited for Mutugi to appear on the water's surface, but after a few minutes, he screamed, attracting locals to the scene.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered his clothes and mud boots, which he had removed before diving into the water, according to the assistant chief.

He also cautioned visitors to the area, particularly men and boys, to be cautious and avoid swimming in the pond because it is known to be a killer.

“We condole with the family of the deceased as we warn residents to be careful not to risk swimming in the river since the area section has been dangerous as many bodies have been retrieved from that area.” said the assistant chief. 

He also advised residents to exercise caution when crossing swollen rivers, recommending that they take alternate routes to avoid such disasters.

Local divers have begun searching for the body in the aftermath of the tragedy.