Killer pitbulls killed after mauling neighbour to death: SPCA blames owner’s neglect for death
The deadly pitbulls that mauled a Bluffhill man to death have been put down. The Zimbabwe National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ZNSPCA) confirmed the dogs were euthanised humanely following the fatal attack on 39-year-old Samuel Machara. The SPCA also laid the blame squarely on the owner’s alleged neglect.
“The animals were humanely euthanised, in accordance with animal welfare protocols and in the interest of public safety,”
— ZNSPCA, 1 June 2025
Dogs put down after tragic attack
The horrifying attack happened at a private residence in Mabelreign, Harare, on Saturday, 1 June. The dogs — which included cross-breed pitbulls — were owned by 40-year-old Mike Mupinga, who has since been arrested for culpable homicide.
ZNSPCA officers responded to the scene and immediately removed all the dogs from the property. The organisation stressed that the decision to euthanise was not taken lightly.
“Initial assessments indicate clear evidence of neglect, confinement, and poor socialisation of the animals involved. Such conditions are known to severely affect canine behaviour,”
— ZNSPCA Official Statement
Neighbourhood residents said the dogs were often seen roaming the area freely. According to witnesses, the perimeter wall of the Mupinga home was low and unfinished.
ZNSPCA urged the public to avoid owning dangerous dog breeds without proper training, socialisation, and secure containment.
“We strongly caution the public against the ownership, breeding, and cross-breeding of dangerous dog breeds… responsibilities that, if neglected, can result in tragic consequences such as these,”
— ZNSPCA
“We warned him”: Outrage in the community
Local residents expressed anger, saying the dogs had attacked pets and chased children before.
“It’s not just one dog. In 2023 they chased my kids. Last year they killed another dog. The owner was rude when we pleaded with him,”
— Neighbour and journalist, Maynard Manyowa
Another resident added:
“These dogs are not for the suburbs. What if next time it’s a child?”
Journalist Simiso Mlevu confirmed on social media that one of the dogs had bitten a domestic worker in the past.
Former Harare City Deputy Mayor Kudzie Kadzombe said the SPCA had previously removed some dogs from the property after earlier complaints.
“There are pictures of them roaming. We are not safe,”
— Concerned resident
ZNSPCA demands stronger animal laws
ZNSPCA used the tragedy to highlight broader concerns about backyard breeding and lax enforcement of animal welfare laws.
“We urgently call on members of the public not to keep dogs if unable to provide proper care, safety, and socialisation. Ownership is a responsibility – not a right,”
— ZNSPCA
The animal welfare body appealed to authorities to introduce stricter by-laws and custodial sentences for violations.
“The unchecked proliferation of these practices results in countless neglected, abused, or abandoned animals – and now, as we’ve witnessed, loss of human life,”
— ZNSPCA
They encouraged the public to approach any SPCA branch for support, advice or to surrender animals if they could not provide appropriate care
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