Centre News Reporter
Chiredzi — In a bizarre case that has left local Chiredzi villagers astonished, two juveniles aged eight and nine killed a crocodile near a river which passes through their village on January 26, authorities said.
The incident occurred in the Hlengani area under Chief Tshovani in Chiredzi.
The boys reportedly encountered the crocodile near a river and attacked it by stoning, resulting in its death.
Masvingo acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the incident and said the two juveniles will not be arrested, given their ages.
He described the incident as bizarre and noted that authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding what happened. “The juveniles reportedly encountered the crocodile near a river and attacked it by stoning, resulting in its death. We’re investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. It is a bizarre incident, how these children managed to kill the crocodile, considering their ages ” Asst Inspector Patinyu said.
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority has taken custody of the crocodile carcass as part of the ongoing process.
The incident is a classic example of safety in areas where humans and wildlife share space, with an emphasis on the need for community awareness and protective measures to reduce risks of human and wildlife conflict.
