A 50‑year‑old man from St Mannocks Farm in Nyariba, identified as Gift Jambaya, appeared before the Chinhoyi Regional Court this week, facing charges of culpable homicide after his dogs allegedly mauled a 13‑year‑old girl to death in a horrific incident that has shocked the community.
According to court documents, the tragedy occurred on 3 September 2025 when Jambaya reportedly left his home and failed to secure six cross‑breed dogs. During his absence, the animals escaped the property and attacked a group of schoolchildren walking home.
While most of the children managed to flee in terror, one — Caroline Chari, aged 13 — was not so fortunate. She was overwhelmed by the dogs and sustained severe injuries. Her body was later discovered by a search party, showing multiple deep cuts and bite wounds consistent with a prolonged attack.
The incident has sent ripples of grief through the Chinhoyi community, with neighbours describing it as a nightmare no parent should endure. Caroline’s death has been described by many as a preventable tragedy, sparking calls for greater enforcement of animal control laws and more responsible pet ownership.
At this week’s court hearing, Jambaya appeared in custody, and the State opposed bail. Magistrate Chakanyuka ordered that he remain remanded until the next hearing.
The State alleges that Jambaya’s negligence in failing to secure the dogs directly resulted in Caroline’s death. Legal experts have weighed in, stating that allowing dangerous animals to roam freely constitutes a breach of duty of care and could amount to criminal liability where fatalities occur.
“Owners of animals have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that their pets are secured and cannot harm other members of the public,” said one Chinhoyi-based legal practitioner. “When negligence of this nature results in the loss of life, culpable homicide charges are appropriate.”
Man Appears in Court Over Fatal Dog Attack on 13‑Year‑Old Girl
The gruesome details of the attack have emerged in court proceedings. Witnesses testified that the dogs were known to be aggressive, with previous reports of threatening behaviour towards people and livestock. Despite this, they were reportedly left unattended on the day of the attack.
A neighbour recounted hearing screams and rushing to the scene. “We saw children running, but Caroline was caught,” said the witness. “The dogs had already started attacking her. It was a horrific scene — something you don’t forget.”
Community members have expressed outrage and sorrow over the incident, calling it a wake‑up call for both dog owners and local authorities. Many have urged a review of animal control regulations, arguing that current laws are either insufficiently enforced or poorly understood by the public.
Zimbabwe’s Public Health Act and relevant local council by‑laws require dog owners to restrain and control animals, especially breeds that may pose a danger to the public. However, enforcement of these rules remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas.
Animal welfare groups have also weighed in on the case, stressing that responsible pet ownership must go hand in hand with community safety. “This is a tragedy that underscores the importance of proper containment, training, and care for animals,” said a spokesperson for a local animal welfare organisation. “It is not only a matter of animal welfare but a public safety imperative.”
The case has reignited discussions around existing legislation on dangerous animals and sparked calls for stiffer penalties for negligent owners. Many in Chinhoyi are now demanding stronger patrols and inspections by council authorities to ensure compliance with animal control laws.
For Caroline’s family, the loss is devastating. Relatives have described her as a bright, kind‑hearted girl with her whole life ahead of her. The death has left a void in the family, and her loss is felt deeply throughout the community.
“This is more than a legal matter; it is a tragedy that will haunt us forever,” said a family member. “We hope that justice will be served so no other child suffers the same fate.”
The legal proceedings are set to continue, with the next hearing scheduled for later this month. The outcome of the case will be closely watched, not only for its implications for the accused but also for the wider question of how Zimbabwe enforces and strengthens animal control measures.
This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers of neglect and the heavy responsibility that comes with animal ownership. For communities across the country, the hope is that stronger laws and better awareness can prevent such tragedies in the future — ensuring that the death of Caroline Chari was not in vain.
Source- Bulawayo24
