Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Post Reporter
A HIPPOPOTAMUS attack at Charuma homestead, Netsaringoma Village under Chief Chamutsa in Buhera left one villager seriously injured on Monday morning.
The victims, Tawanda Charuma (38) and Elvis Charuma, both residents of the homestead, were caught up in the incident.
Tawanda sustained injuries to the stomach and buttocks after being mauled, while Elvis escaped unharmed.
Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, confirmed the attack, noting that the community was left in shock.
He explained that the incident occurred at around 5.45am, when the hippopotamus was spotted resting behind a cattle kraal at the Charuma homestead.
Word of the unusual sight quickly spread, drawing villagers who gathered to take photographs.
The animal became agitated and charged at the crowd, forcing some to scramble onto the top of a nearby kraal shed.
The hippopotamus reportedly stood beneath the structure, trapping those on top.
While several managed to jump down and flee, Tawanda was attacked as he leapt from the shed.
He was rushed to Birchenough Bridge Hospital, where he was admitted and is reported to be in a stable condition. Elvis was safely rescued.
The incident was reported to ZRP Nyanyadzi, and officers from the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority responded, eventually shooting the hippopotamus dead to prevent further harm.
“We urge members of the public to report any sightings of dangerous wildlife to the relevant authorities promptly, to ensure public safety,” said assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka also reminded the public to exercise extreme caution when encountering wild animals, as they can be unpredictable and pose a significant threat to human life.
“We urge everyone to avoid playing or taking selfies with wild animals, as this can provoke them and lead to tragic consequences. Let us learn from this incident and take necessary precautions to stay safe,” he said.
