Maracha Medical Student Dies in Tragic Quarry Lake Incident

Last updated: December 8, 2025 10:39 am

By Aine Siggy

A celebration turned tragic in Maracha District after a student from St. Joseph’s Medical Training School drowned while swimming in a former quarry that has long been flagged as a danger zone.

The group of students had reportedly gone to the Rokoze quarry lake to relax after finishing their examinations. Witnesses say the water looked calm, and many of the students jumped in without suspecting any risk. But the lake, formed years ago after a hill-blasting project by a construction company, is known to have extremely deep sections.

During the swim, Denis Araku — one of the trainees — ventured further into the deeper part of the lake. Students said he suddenly began calling for help, saying he was exhausted. Those nearby tried to respond, but he slipped beneath the water before anyone could reach him.

Local leaders were alerted almost immediately. The village chairperson, who had seen the students pass through his compound on their way to the lake, rushed to the scene but found the situation already beyond rescue. Authorities were later informed and investigations began.

Residents say this tragedy is not isolated. The Rokoze quarry lake has claimed several lives since it was created, with children and young people being the most common victims. Community leaders are now renewing warnings about the hidden dangers of the water body, urging the district to take action to restrict access or improve safety around the site.

The medical school community has been left in shock as they come to terms with the loss of one of their own, just moments after celebrating the end of exams.

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