Darwendale Farmer (74) Facing Homicide Charges After Rabid Dogs Killed Boy (10)

Boy mauled while playing football

A 74-year-old Darwendale farmer, Billjohn Takawira Magede, has appeared before the Banket Magistrates’ Court on a culpable homicide charge after two of his Boerboel dogs fatally mauled 10-year-old Shelton Panganai.

The incident took place on 17 July 2025 at Bonvalley Farm. Shelton had been playing football with three friends when the dogs charged at them. While the other children escaped, Shelton was caught as he ran into a gum tree plantation.

According to a statement from the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) on 8 August 2025,

“The victim’s lifeless body was discovered naked and lying face-down in the plantation later that evening. Veterinary tests confirmed the dogs had rabies.”

Police confirm arrest and investigation

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest and identified the accused. Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi detailed the attack, saying:

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that Shelton Panganai, aged nine, was mauled to death by four suspected Boer dogs at Bornvalley Farm, Darwendale, on 17th of July 2025, while playing soccer in the company of other children.”

Commissioner Nyathi explained that the dogs had escaped from their owner’s property before attacking the group.

“The dogs went out of their owner’s residence and went on to chase the children who ran in different directions. Shelton Panganai was then mauled to death at a nearby gum tree plantation. The dogs have since been killed by relevant authorities under the supervision of the Zimbabwe Republic Police,” he said.

Case postponed as safety warning issued

The matter has been postponed to 19 August 2025 to allow for further investigations.

Commissioner Nyathi also addressed online speculation about the case being ignored.

“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.”

The NPAZ has urged the public to vaccinate pets, especially dogs, and ensure they are securely kept to avoid tragedies.