Strange creature attacks villagers

VILLAGERS at Elim in Limpopo are reportedly living in fear after some of them were attacked by a strange creature leaving them with scars.

Daily Sun reported that following the attacks villagers lie awake in their beds, wondering who the next victim will be.

They say the powerful creature has long white teeth and attacks for no reason.

About 25 residents of Elim, Limpopo have been attacked.

The attacks occurred between 23 July and Saturday but villagers fear the creature may strike again at any time.

A resident of Ka-Chavani Village, Florah Matombo (44), said she heard children screaming for help.

"I rushed outside and found kids scattering in all directions. A black four-legged creature jumped at me and went for my throat," she said.

She said she fought it off and finally a neighbour arrived and chased the creature away.

"My fingers and wrist were injured," she said.

When she went to the clinic, she found many other victims of the attack. They were all transferred to Elim Hospital.

"I'm off work because of the injuries," she said.

Frazer Baloyi (20) said the beast attacked him at about 8am.

People heard his cries for help, and when two men arrived with weapons they found the creature on top of Frazer.

Tshovela Maluleke (6) was playing outside with his friends on 24 July when the creature attacked him. He managed to get away with minor injuries.

"I see it in my sleep. It's a black animal with white on its chest," he said.

His mother, Lavisa Maluleke (55), said people called 10111 and 112 without success.

"We want the police to come and shoot this creature."

Local SPCA animal inspector Lawrence Khodobo said they advised people to call the police.

"In the history of our office here in Makhado we've had never had a case of this nature," he said.

Waterval police spokeswoman Constable Cynthia Ndou said: "This is not a police case. We can only act on the SPCA's directive."