adminMr Sibhekile Sibanda, from plot five Mashura Ranch, was attacked by the leopard while rounding up his cattle on Sunday evening.
Confirming the incident yesterday, Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Loveness Mangena said Mr Sibanda was recovering at Gwanda Provincial Hospital.
She described his condition as stable.
“Mr Sibanda left his homestead with his dog at 5pm to round up cattle in a nearby field. When he walked towards the cattle he heard them bellowing and then proceeded to see what was happening,” said Sgt Mangena.
She said as Mr Sibanda moved towards the cattle and was 200 metres from his homestead, the animal pounced on him.
“Before he could go and see what was happening to his cattle the leopard pounced on him and attacked him in the face and all over the body with its claws,” said Sgt Mangena.
“The man’s dog came to his rescue after attacking the leopard on one of its hind legs. The leopard then stopped attacking Mr Sibanda.”
She said Mr Sibanda took the opportunity of the leopard’s distraction and struck the animal on the forehead with a knobkerrie and it lost consciousness.
“After freeing himself he then rushed to plot number three of Mashura Ranch to seek assistance. He was then rushed to West Nicholson Clinic from where he was then referred to Gwanda Provincial Hospital,” said Sgt Mangena.
She said police informed officials from the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority of the incident.
“Villagers must be very careful when going out in the evening to round up their cattle. They should be on the look out for these wild animals,” said Sgt Mangena.
Online Reporter