The Mbizo 19 community in Kwekwe, Midlands Province, has been left devastated and in disbelief after a horrific discovery involving a stray dog and a newborn baby. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has sent shockwaves throughout the area, raising fresh concerns about child neglect, stray animals, and public safety.
According to residents who spoke to Southern Eye, the gruesome discovery was made near a church that is currently under construction. Passersby were reportedly alerted by disturbing sounds and, upon investigating, came across the stray dog feasting on what initially appeared to be a bundle of clothes—only to discover that it was the body of a newborn baby.
“We are still in shock. It’s not something you expect to come across in your lifetime,” said one resident, who asked not to be named. “Some people noticed the dog behaving strangely near the church construction site. That’s when they approached and made the horrifying discovery.”
Kwekwe Community Shaken After Dog Found Eating Newborn Baby
The residents immediately notified the police, who arrived on the scene to secure the area. The remains of the baby were collected and transported to a local mortuary for further examination. Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death and subsequent abandonment.
At the time of reporting, it remains unclear whether the baby was already deceased before being dumped, or if it died after being left in the open. Forensic analysis and a postmortem are expected to shed light on the cause of death. The identity of the mother or any potential suspects has not yet been established.
“This is a heartbreaking situation,” another local resident commented. “No matter the circumstances, no child deserves this kind of end. We hope the authorities will get to the bottom of what happened.”
This tragic event has reignited conversations about safety and stray animal control in urban communities, particularly in high-density suburbs like Mbizo. In recent months, there has been growing public concern regarding dog attacks across Zimbabwe. Several reported cases have involved aggressive breeds such as pit bulls mauling individuals, prompting calls for tighter regulation and enforcement.
Although the dog involved in this particular incident was a stray, the situation has emphasized the dangers posed by unmanaged animals roaming freely in residential neighborhoods. Some residents have now called on local authorities to step up their efforts in managing the stray dog population and ensuring public spaces are safe.
“The problem of stray dogs in Kwekwe has been ongoing for years. We’ve reported this several times to the city council, but little has been done,” said a community elder. “Now an innocent life has been lost, and it’s only after such tragedies that people start paying attention.”
Efforts to reach Midlands provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, for an official comment were unsuccessful by the time of publication. However, police sources confirmed that a full investigation is underway and that they are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.
Community leaders and religious groups have also weighed in on the matter, calling for greater vigilance and support for vulnerable women and children. A pastor from a nearby church under construction, close to where the baby was found, urged society to reflect on the growing issues of child abandonment, poverty, and moral decay.
“We cannot ignore the deeper issues here,” he said. “The fact that someone may have felt so desperate or afraid that they abandoned a baby is tragic on its own. We need to address mental health, poverty, and support systems for young mothers before things like this happen.”
In response to the tragedy, local non-governmental organizations have begun mobilizing efforts to educate the public on child protection, reproductive health, and emergency support services available to struggling families. A candlelight vigil is also being planned by residents to mourn the life lost and raise awareness about community responsibility.
As the investigation continues, the residents of Mbizo 19 remain united in grief, hoping for justice and a renewed commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
