Harare -
A Zimbabwean man was killed while trying to rescue his friend from attacking crocodiles in northwest Zimbabwe, a fishing club said Wednesday.
The National Anglers' Union said that Frank Trott, aged in his 70s, died after trying to rescue a friend paddling along the shoreline at Charara fishing camp. His friend survived but sustained wounds to his midsection and buttocks.
Two crocodiles were shot dead by wildlife rangers after last week's attack. Remnants of the victim - including intestines and clothing - were found along the remote shores of Lake Kariba. No other remains were found.
The dead man was dragged away by a giant crocodile after going to assist his friend, said Mike Brennan, head of the fishing group. The friend, aged in his 40s and a fellow farmer with experience in the African wilderness, was treated for his wounds.
Brennan said the two had returned from a day outing Thursday on the lake for dinner and drinks at the fishing camp.
The survivor's wounds suggested he had been wading waist-deep in the lake when the crocodile attacked late in the evening. Trott was seized by a second large crocodile resting in long grass when he raced into the water to answer his friend's cries for help.
The surroundings of Lake Kariba, a man-made hydroelectric dam about 300 kilometers (180 miles) long, are a major leisure resort for fishing, boating and sightseeing for wildlife, the habitat of crocodiles and hippos.
Brennan said a memorial service for Trott is scheduled Friday.
He said it was the second dramatic crocodile attack within the past month.
“Please, everyone be warned to be to be vigilant near the water's edge at all times,” he said. “It is dangerous no matter where you are on the lake.” - Sapa-AP