Dogs maul boy's privates

A 44-year-old farm security guard, Daniel Simango, has been sentenced to 14 months in prison after he set his dogs on a 10-year-old boy, leaving the child with grievous bodily harm.

The incident occurred on October 12 when the boy and his friends sneaked into Luipaardsvlei farm in Mukono village, Chipinge, with the intent to steal macadamia nuts. The group gained access to the farm by stretching the fence to create an opening.

Simango confronted the boys and, instead of reporting the matter, he unleashed his dogs on them. The dogs mauled the 10-year-old victim multiple times, inflicting severe injuries to his left thigh and private parts. The boy was left in agony, nursing serious wounds from the attack.

Simango was arrested and later appeared in court, where he was sentenced to 14 months in prison. However, the court suspended seven months of the sentence for a period of five years, contingent upon good behaviour. The remaining time was suspended on the condition that Simango completes 245 hours of community service.

The court's ruling highlighted the severity of Simango's actions, as his decision to use the dogs to attack the young boys was deemed excessive and unlawful. The victim is currently receiving medical treatment for his injuries, and the case has sparked outrage in the local community over the use of animals for violent purposes.

Simango's sentence serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of excessive force and abuse, even in cases where individuals are attempting to commit theft. The young boy's recovery will be closely monitored, and his family is considering further legal action.