Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
A 13-year-old girl was mauled to death by three vicious dogs in Nyabira on Monday.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that the girl, identified as Caroline Chari, was attacked on 29 September while walking home from school with four friends at St Mannocks Farm
“The victim was coming from school in the company of her school mates when three marauding dogs attacked and chased them. The children ran in different directions the dogs pursued and caught up with the victim, resulting in her death” ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said.
Police have arrested the dogs’ owner, 50-year-old Gift Jambaya, who allegedly failed to comply with vaccination requirements. Authorities said the dogs were last vaccinated in 2024, and Jambaya ignored the Department of Veterinary Services’ 2025 rabies vaccination outreach program.
Commissioner Nyathi said the ZRP was deeply concerned about a growing trend of vicious dogs being left to roam without restraint.
“It is sad to note that the vicious dogs were last vaccinated in 2024. The Zimbabwe Republic Police is disturbed by the trend of vicious dogs being allowed to move without a leash, guidance, or being kept loose by the owners,” he said.
He added that it was the responsibility of owners to ensure their pets did not endanger the public.
“It is the responsibility of dog owners to protect the public and strictly comply with public safety measures,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
Police have intensified joint operations with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), local authorities, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care to deal with stray and dangerous dogs.
“All dogs kept in residential areas without due regard for the safety of Zimbabweans being priotised will be impounded,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Members of the public have been urged to report stray or vicious dogs roaming the streets to the nearest police station or through the ZRP Complaints Desk on 0242 703631, or via WhatsApp on 0712 800 197
