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Zimbabwe: Infant Trampled By Jumbo

By Thupeyo Muleya



Beitbridge — A six year old boy from Chituripasi area in Beitbridge was today attacked and killed by an elephant while his sister watched helplessly.

The incident occurred around 11am some 200 metres from the business centre.

Acting chief executive officer for Beitbridge Rural District council, Mr Peter Ncube said they had since sent a local safari (Three Way Safaris) to hunt for the jumbo.

"We have notified the police and the local safari operator. The elephant is reported to be still in the area," he said.

"Indications are that the now deceased was coming from pre-school in the company of an elder sister and another minor when they came across the jumbo".

Mr Ncube said the sister fled to the other side of the road while the now deceased tried to flee to the nearest homestead.



The boy was then attacked and killed by the elephant which, after the act, stood guard for a while before disappearing towards the Limpopo River.

Chituripasi Ward (1) councillor, Mr Enock Ndou said the elephant had earlier on been spotted by villagers near the local business centre though it didn't look agitated.

He said the villagers were now living in fear and wanted the local safari operator to take action.

Police spokesperson for Matabeleland South Assistant Inspector Nkosinathi Sibanda could not be reached for comment.

Elephants have become a perennial menace in areas along the border where they trample on people or destroy irrigation schemes and crops.