Police probe cattle deaths

Midlands Correspondent
POLICE in Gweru are investigating a case in which five cattle belonging to different villagers were found dead after straying into a neighbour’s farm.
Acting police spokesperson for Midlands Assistant Inspector Ethel Mukwende confirmed the incident, which occurred at Zindoga Farm on the outskirts of Gweru along the Gweru-Matobo Road.
However, Assist Insp Mukwende could not give details regarding the circumstances surrounding mysterious deaths of the five beasts, saying they were still investigating the matter.

“I can confirm that police are investigating a suspected malicious damage to property in which five cattle were found dead on the farm along the Gweru-Matobo Road on Tuesday. Investigations into the cause of the deaths are still underway,” she said.

The affected villagers told Chronicle yesterday that they were suspecting foul play following the “mysterious” death of their cattle.

“We suspect that our cattle could have been poisoned by some people who do not want to co-exist with others.

“There is no disease outbreak which could have resulted in the death of our beasts and what raises more questions is that all the beasts were found dead on Tuesday morning which means they were poisoned at once,” said Mr Mike Ndlovu who lost two cattle.

Mr Lameck Moyo, who lost one beast said they were now afraid of losing more.

“The police should do thorough investigations into the case because there might be saboteurs within our community. We want them to be isolated from the community in order to protect our property,” said Mr Moyo.