Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
THE usual tranquil atmosphere in the mornings of Gwabalanda suburb in Bulawayo was shattered last Sunday, when residents awoke to a horrific scene, when they found dogs feasting on the corpse of a newborn baby.
The nightmarish discovery came to light when a passerby noticed a group of dogs feasting on a humanoid feature.
Upon closer inspection, the horrifying truth was revealed, the newborn baby had been abandoned and left at the mercy of the stray animals.
Bulawayo provincial deputy police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu said they have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abandonment of the baby and the subsequent attack by the dogs.
She said findings suggest that the baby was likely left there shortly after birth, leading to the chain of events that unfolded.
“On 12 October and at around 8AM, the informant let his four dogs outside the yard. On the same day at around 11AM, the informant was approached by his neighbour who told him that she had seen one of his dogs carrying something that looked like a foetus and had dropped it after being chased by passers-by,” said Asst Insp Ndlovu.
She said the discovery was absolutely shocking and unfathomable to think that such a helpless and innocent life could be treated in such a callous manner.
Asst Insp Ndlovu said the incident has brought to the forefront the urgent need for greater awareness and action to protect vulnerable members of society, particularly newborns and infants.
“Discussions are underway within the community to implement measures that will prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future,” she said.
Asst Insp Ndlovu said police and stakeholders in the neighbourhood are urging anyone with information regarding the abandonment of the baby to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
“It is hoped that through collective effort justice will be served and steps will be taken to prevent such heartbreaking incidents from happening again,” said Asst Insp Ndlovu.
She said the remains of the baby were ferried to United Bulawayo Hospital for post mortem.
“Investigations are in progress under ZRP Luveve RRB number 6073905,” said Asst Insp Ndlovu.
A resident Mrs Nomsa Ndlovu, said the scene was horrifying and nothing short of a horror tale.
“I have never witnessed such a harrowing sight in all my years living here. The image of dogs scavenging the remains of a defenseless newborn will forever haunt me,” she said.
Residents of the suburb have since called for increased efforts to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable members of society.
“This heartbreaking incident has shaken us to our core. We are committed to working together to enhance community safety and welfare,” said a resident.
The incident has also drawn attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for heightened awareness regarding the disposal of waste and deceased animals within residential areas.
