Maria David
A 16-YEAR-OLD Angolan cattle herder, known only as “Tate-tai,” tragically died after being electrocuted while allegedly climbing an electricity pole near the sewage dam in Omuthiya Town.
Oshikoto Community Policing Sub-division Chief Inspector Ellen Nehale-Kangulu said the incident occurred around 14:30 on Wednesday.
According to Nehale-Kangulu, the deceased was tending to livestock in an open pasture when he climbed the utility pole and came into contact with live electrical wires. He died instantly, and his body remained suspended on the pole.
“A nearby cattle herder reported hearing the sound of an electric discharge. Upon investigating the source of the noise, the witness discovered the lifeless body of the deceased hanging from the power pole,” she said.
She added that the witness, who was able to identify the deceased, immediately reported the incident to the Omuthiya Police Station.
NORED (Northern Electricity Distributor) officials were promptly contacted and dispatched to the scene to safely remove the deceased’s body from the electricity pole.
The deceased’s body was transported to the Omuthiya Police Mortuary for an autopsy.
NORED spokesperson Simon Lukas indicated that the deceased was electrocuted after he climbed a 22kV overhead line pole.
“As we process this heartbreaking loss, we would like to once again remind members of the public that electricity is very dangerous, and they should stay away from electrical infrastructure at all times,” he said.
He added that their thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family, friends, and community members for the loss of their loved one.
