By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced a new nationwide operation to curb cases of dogs roaming unsupervised, citing growing public concern over fatal attacks.
In a statement issued on September 19, 2025, the ZRP said the clampdown will be carried out in partnership with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and local authorities.
The police reminded citizens that under the Harare Dog Licensing and Control By-Law of 1993 (Statutory Instrument 19 of 1993), owners are legally obliged to keep their dogs on a leash and prevent them from straying.
“The ZRP reminds dog owners to keep their dogs on leash and ensure that dogs do not roam on the streets unsupervised in accordance with the country’s laws, especially the Harare Dog Licensing and Control By-Law of 1993. Dog owners should prioritize the safety of others,” the statement read.
The police further warned that both stray dogs and negligent owners would be targeted under the joint operation.
The latest enforcement effort follows several attacks, including a widely reported incident in New Bluffhill, Harare, on June 1, 2025. In that case, 40-year-old Mike Mupinga was arrested after his two pitbulls allegedly mauled his neighbour, 39-year-old Samuel Machara, to death.
Police confirmed Mupinga was charged with culpable homicide.