Tinotenda Hove – A 74-year-old Darwendale farmer, Billjohn Takawira Magede, has appeared before the Banket Magistrates’ Court facing a culpable homicide charge after his two Boerboel dogs mauled a 10-year-old boy to death.

The horrifying incident occurred on July 17, 2025, at Bonvalley Farm, where the victim, Shelton Panganai, was playing soccer with three friends. The game turned into tragedy when two aggressive dogs suddenly charged at the children.

While the other boys managed to escape, Shelton was chased into a nearby gum tree plantation, where he was viciously attacked. His friends raised the alarm, prompting a desperate search by family members. Later that evening, Shelton’s body was discovered lying face-down and naked in the plantation.

Veterinary tests later confirmed that both dogs were infected with rabies. Authorities immediately launched investigations into the incident.

Magede’s court case has been postponed to August 19, 2025, as police continue their inquiries into the fatal mauling.