By Patience Gondo
Police have launched a crackdown on owners of vicious dogs following the death of Caroline Chari who was mauled by three vicious dogs in Nyabira.
In a statement released by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on Wednesday , police requested people to report to their Harare numbers 02422703631 or whatsapp 0712800197, any people owning the vicious breeds.
The police crackdown comes after Chari, a 13-year-old girl was mauled to death by vicious dogs on September 29 this week.
Police spokesperson, commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“The victim was coming from school in the company of four schoolmates 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,” Nyathi said .
The police has arrested Gift Jambaya (50) the owner of the hounds.
“It is sad to note that the vicious dogs were last vaccinated in 2024 and the owner ignored the Department of Veterinary Services’ 2025 rabies vaccination outreach programme,” Nyathi said in the statement.
This tragic death marks one of the most severe outcomes of a rising pattern of dog attacks in Zimbabwe raising critical questions about animal control regulations, owner responsibility and public safety .
In Beitbridge several people own these breeds and openly advertise them on social media platforms despite the danger posed.
Back in March 2018, a girl (9) was mauled to death on her from school along Acacia Drive in Beitbridge.
Another Beitbridge man had his privates mauled by a vicious dog he was leading to the Veterinary offices for a dip, an incident which occured near the Beitbridge Old Police Station complex which houses Lotsha FM Radio.
Most recently, in August this year again, Shelton Panganai (9) was mauled to death by four Boerboel dogs while playing football at Bornvalley Farm Darwendale.
The ZRP said it is disturbed by the trend of vicious dogs being allowed to move without a leash, guidance or being kept loose by the owners.
“It is the responsibility of dog owners to protect the public and strictly comply with public safety measures,” said Nyathi.