By Tapiwa Chawagarira
HARARE — An eight-month-old baby was mauled to death by a Rottweiler in a horrific dog attack at Riverside, Glenview 7, Harare, on Wednesday. A two-year-old child and a 26-year-old woman also sustained injuries.
The fatal attack occurred on September 9, when a black male Rottweiler reportedly attacked the three victims.
The eight-month-old infant sustained severe head injuries and died at the scene. The other two victims were injured in the attack.
Confirming the incident, the Zimbabwe Republic Police urged dog owners to take responsibility for the animals under their care and to ensure they are properly secured to prevent attacks on members of the public.
“Dog owners are urged to secure their dogs at all times,” the police said, stressing the need for responsible ownership of potentially dangerous animals.
The dog owner, identified as 48-year-old John Nyandoro, has since been arrested and is facing charges of culpable homicide and of letting a vicious dog run at large.
Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack are underway.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the dangers posed by vicious or poorly controlled dogs, particularly in residential areas where children are vulnerable.
Authorities continue to urge members of the public to report dangerous dogs and for owners to keep their animals securely confined to prevent similar tragedies.
The police also reminded dog owners that keeping potentially dangerous animals comes with the responsibility to protect both the animals and members of the community.
