A 17-year-old boy, Bernard Matewere, is missing after being attacked by a crocodile in the Shire River in Neno district.

According to Neno Police Station spokesperson Rebecca Msoliza, Matewere and his friends were fishing in the river using a mosquito net when the incident occurred.

“They entered the water, cast their net, and during the process, a crocodile attacked Matewere, dragging him into deeper waters. His friends tried to rescue him but were unsuccessful. They reported the matter to their parents, who informed Zalewa Police Unit,” said Msoliza.

A rescue team comprising police officers and community members has been mobilized to search for the missing boy.

Bernard Matewere is from Malango Village, Traditional Authority Symon, in Neno district.