Thembelihle Mhlanga
A terrifying series of hyena attacks in Lupane’s Menyezwa ward has left two men seriously injured and raised urgent concerns about community safety.
The attacks occurred just minutes apart, with both victims targeted while going about their daily chores, sparking fears among local residents about the growing danger of wildlife encroaching on human territories.
The first victim, Oscar Nyoni, was collecting water from the Gwayi River for his cattle when the hyena struck. “The hyena came out of nowhere,” said Shaun Ngwenya, a family spokesperson. “It was so fast, Oscar didn’t have time to react before it lunged at him.” Nyoni suffered a fractured arm and finger but managed to escape to safety.
Just minutes later, another villager, Praisemore Ndlovu, was attacked while herding cattle near the river. “Praisemore tried to scare it off, but the hyena charged at him instead,” Ngwenya explained. In his attempt to flee, Ndlovu tripped and fell, and the hyena seized the opportunity, attacking him and causing a fracture in his right hand. “They both fought bravely until the hyena finally retreated,” Ngwenya added.
Both men are now recovering at Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo, where they confirmed the harrowing details of their attacks.
The incidents have sparked widespread fear in the community, with many villagers demanding immediate action. “It’s becoming too dangerous for us and our livestock,” one local resident said. “We need stronger measures to protect ourselves from these predators.”
In response, ranger Francis Matshisa Nyoni from the Kusile Rural District Council quickly mobilized a team to track down the hyenas responsible. Their efforts were successful, with two hyenas killed in the area. “The safety of our people comes first,” Nyoni stated. “We cannot let these predators continue to threaten the community.”
As the village remains on high alert, authorities are calling for more effective strategies to protect vulnerable communities from wildlife dangers. The growing risk of animals encroaching on human habitats continues to be a serious concern for local residents.
