Toddler (2) Mauled To Death By Stepfather’s Four Vicious Dogs In Bulawayo Horror Attack

Toddler Mauled To Death By Stepfather’S Four Vicious Dogs In Bulawayo

BULAWAYO – A two-year-old girl has died after she was savagely mauled by four dogs that allegedly jumped over a fence and attacked her while she was walking with her mother in the Douglasdale suburb, police have confirmed.

The horrific incident occurred on the morning of February 28 at around 10 AM. The toddler, identified as Tanaka Dube, was walking with her 31-year-old mother while her 44-year-old stepfather was inside the yard feeding the four dogs. The animals suddenly cleared the fence and launched a ferocious attack on the helpless child.

Child Sustained Severe Injuries

Police have detailed the extent of the little girl’s injuries.

“She sustained injuries on the scalp, lacerations behind the ears, armpits and on both legs,” said Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele.

Zimlive reports that the critically injured toddler was rushed to Mpilo Hospital, where she was admitted and treated, but later succumbed to her injuries. Inspector Msebele confirmed that the ZRP has extended its condolences to the family.

Urgent Warning To Dog Owners

Following the tragedy, police have issued an urgent warning to dog owners, particularly those who keep large or aggressive breeds.

Inspector Msebele emphasised the need for proper security measures, stating that properties must be secured to prevent animals from escaping.

Police said investigations are continuing with charges likely against the dog owner.

Rising Toll Of Fatal Attacks

The tragedy adds to a disturbing pattern of fatal dog attacks in Zimbabwe. According to health authorities, more than 20,000 dog bite cases were recorded nationwide in 2023, with children emerging as the most vulnerable victims.

In October 2025, a 50-year-old Nyabira man, Gift Jambaya, appeared in court facing culpable homicide charges after his six dogs mauled 13-year-old Caroline Chari to death.

Another horrific attack occurred in July 2025 when 10-year-old Shelton Panganai was mauled to death by two Boerboel dogs while playing football with friends at a Darwendale farm. The dogs had rabies according to veterinary tests.

In December 2024, the Ministry of Health and Child Care revealed that a staggering 26,000 people across Zimbabwe had been bitten by dogs during that year.

Bulawayo has previously recorded serious dog attacks, prompting repeated calls for stricter enforcement of municipal by-laws requiring secure fencing and proper animal control.