HARARE – A nine-year-old boy was mauled to death by four Boerboel dogs while playing with friends at Bornvalley Farm in Darwendale, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed.
The tragic incident occurred on July 17, 2025, when Shelton Panganai was reportedly playing football with other children.
According to police, the dogs escaped from a nearby residence and began chasing the children, who scattered in fear. Shelton was caught and fatally attacked near a gum tree plantation.
In a statement released on Monday, police said they had arrested one suspect, Mark Masendeke Magede, believed to be the owner or custodian of the animals. Authorities have since put down the four dogs involved in the attack.
National police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi assured the public that the case is under full investigation and dismissed claims circulating on social media that the matter was being suppressed to protect Magede, a prominent member of the ruling Zanu PF party.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that the case will not be swept under the carpet as alleged on social media posts and everything will be handled in line with the country’s laws,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Police are continuing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including how the dogs managed to escape the property.
The incident has sparked renewed debate around the ownership of aggressive dog breeds and the responsibilities of pet owners, coming months after a man was killed by dogs in Harare.
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