Fear and anger are mounting in the village of Tshikhudini, outside Musina, over a pack of stray dogs that has repeatedly attacked and killed livestock.
In the latest incident this week, nine goats were brutally ripped apart after the dogs invaded a kraal, wiping out a significant portion of the farmers’ livestock and livelihoods. Residents say the attacks have become a serious threat, not only to livestock but also to the safety of the community.
Community leader Mr Lucas Manebaneba, chairperson of the Tshikhudini Concern Group and deputy chairperson of the Niani Community Crime Prevention Group, said the problem began late last year and has continued despite efforts to resolve it.
“The attacks began late last year when some farmers lost goats to a pack of about eleven dogs belonging to a local resident. We have tried to address the issue, but it seems the owner is not willing to keep the dogs away from the community,” he said.
Manebaneba added that the community fears more losses if decisive action is not taken soon.
One of the affected farmers, Ms Sheila Ndou, said she suffered a devastating loss when eight of her goats were killed in October last year.
“The attack dealt me a serious blow. Imagine losing eight goats in one day,” she said.
Ndou said the owner of the dogs had promised to compensate her. “But almost six months later, I am still waiting. These dogs should be removed from the village because they have become a major problem,” she added.
The SPCA in Louis Trichardt has since intervened after receiving a complaint from residents. SPCA inspector Lawrence Khodobo confirmed that they had spoken to the owner of the dogs.
“He indicated that the incident was unfortunate and not intentional. He promised that it would not happen again and said he would relocate the dogs to a safer place when he returns from work on Friday. He also undertook to compensate the affected farmers,” Khodobo said.
Meanwhile, the most recent victim, Mr Nthomeni Sidimela, expressed relief after the dog owner replaced all his goats that were killed.
“I was extremely angry when I found my goats torn apart in such a cruel manner. I stood my ground, and eventually my goats were replaced. The owner has also promised to relocate the dogs,” he said.