Tinotenda Hove- A man from Zaka District in Masvingo Province is recovering in hospital after suffering serious injuries in a vicious hyena attack that left him without two fingers, one on each hand.

The victim, identified as Samuel Mahachi of Rupfidza Village in Ward 20, was attacked while bathing with his 15-year-old son in a local river.

Mahachi’s son reportedly intervened after the animal attacked his father, receiving assistance from other villagers who managed to chase the hyena away. The teenager was also scratched during the struggle.

Local councillor Walter Masaka confirmed that Mahachi was receiving treatment at Musiso Mission Hospital.

The incident has heightened fears among residents, who say hyenas have increasingly become a persistent threat in the area.

Masaka said the animals were no longer confining themselves to remote areas and were regularly venturing into communities.

“Hyenas are now roaming freely in the area from around 5 pm until 8 am.

They are no longer afraid of people,” Masaka said.
The councillor said the growing presence of the predators had also resulted in substantial losses of livestock in recent years.

According to Masaka, villagers have lost more than 50 goats and sheep, approximately 15 donkeys and two cattle to hyena attacks.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the safety of residents, particularly those living close to areas frequented by the animals.