Hyena Devours Mutoko Man Heading Home From Tavern—Police Rule Out Foul Play
A man from Mutoko was mauled to death by a hyena while heading home from a local tavern, in a brutal attack that has left the community reeling.
The victim, Tendai Pasi (53), had spent the evening drinking at a bar in Katsukunya Township and was walking home alone when the deadly encounter occurred.
His wife, Ashley Kachidza (48), and their 13-year-old son, Christ Pasi, became alarmed when he failed to return home and began searching for him the following morning.
Mashonaland East Province police spokesperson Inspector Simon Chazovachiyi said the family made a chilling discovery during their search.
“Ashley Kachidza and her son Christ Pasi realised Tendai Pasi had not returned home and began a search.
“During the search, the two came across one of his shoes on the roadside. They then noticed a trail of blood on the grass and signs of a struggle where he appeared to have been dragged,” he said.
The trail led to a gruesome scene roughly ten metres from the road, where Pasi’s body was found with severe injuries consistent with a wild animal attack.
“The body was found with its hands and stomach ripped open.
“Hyena spoor was identified all around the scene and some of the body parts had been eaten, including the shoulders, left arm, and parts of the stomach.
“This provides clear evidence that he was consumed by wild animals,” Chazovachiyi confirmed.
The remains were transported to Mutoko Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Authorities also contacted the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority to assist with the investigation.
Their findings supported the police’s initial assessment, ruling out foul play.
“Officials from the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority were informed, they came and conducted their investigations which revealed that he was killed by wild animals and therefore there is no other speculation we can make that the man could have been murdered,” Chazovachiyi added.
The fatal encounter has raised alarm among villagers, who are now calling for urgent intervention to prevent similar tragedies.
According to iHarare, residents in the area have expressed growing concern over the increasing presence of wild animals near residential zones and are urging authorities to implement stronger safety measures and regular patrols.
