By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
Kariba – Residents of Kariba Nyamhunga 1 suburb are living in fear after a shocking incident in which a lion killed a dog late last night.
The attack occurred around 9 PM while the dog’s owner, Gift Saizi, was at home with his family.
In an interview with GemNation, Saizi recounted the terrifying experience. “We were just relaxing at home when our dog was taken. It’s frightening to think that something like this could happen right outside our door,” he said.
The dog, a beloved pet, had recently given birth to four puppies, making the loss even more distressing for the family.
Local residents are urgently calling for action from both the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and the local council.
Saizi expressed frustration over the lack of response. “We have been reporting these incidents to ZimParks, but they don’t come to attend to the situation. Our safety, especially with children around, is at serious risk.”
Another concerned resident, Maria Mponya, echoed these concerns. “This is the second time a dog has been taken by a lion. If they can snatch our pets from our homes, what’s stopping them from attacking our children next?” she said, urging ZimParks to relocate the lions to a safer area.
In response to these growing concerns, Ward 2 Councilor Takawira Kayungwa reassured residents that steps would be taken to address the issue.
“We understand the fears of our residents and are taking their concerns seriously. The council will engage with ZimParks to find a solution and ensure that the area is made safer. Clearing the nearby bushes is also a priority to discourage wildlife from venturing into residential areas.”
As fear continues to grip the community, residents are calling for swift and decisive measures to protect their neighborhood from the threat of wildlife before another tragedy occurs.
