A heartbreaking incident in Darwendale, Zimbabwe, has led to the arrest of a man after his dogs killed a 9-year-old boy. The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the arrest and said a full investigation is now underway.

The child, Shelton Panganai, was playing football with friends at Bornvalley Farm on July 17, 2025, when the dogs attacked. According to police reports, four dogs believed to be boerboels escaped from their owner’s property and charged at the children. The kids ran in different directions, but Shelton was sadly cornered and mauled to death near a nearby gum tree plantation.

Following the attack, the dogs were put down by authorities to ensure public safety.

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the tragedy, saying Shelton was attacked while playing soccer. He explained that the dogs had left their owner’s home before chasing and attacking the children.

The owner of the dogs, Mark Masendeke Magede, has since been arrested. Police are now looking into the details surrounding the incident, including how the dogs managed to escape.

Commissioner Nyathi assured the public that the case is being taken seriously and will be handled according to the law. He added that everything would be done to ensure justice is served.

There had been growing concern on social media that the case might be ignored, but police have dismissed those fears. Commissioner Nyathi stated that the Zimbabwe Republic Police would not allow the matter to be swept under the carpet.