News / National
Beitbridge boy injured in baboon attack
25 Jan 2025 at 16:21hrs | Views
A young boy from Beitbridge is nursing serious injuries after being attacked by a baboon in a shocking case of human-wildlife conflict in the border town. The incident, which has raised concerns about the growing danger posed by wildlife in the area, occurred recently, leaving the child with severe open wounds on his back and hands. The distressing images of the boy's injuries have circulated widely on social media, drawing attention to the increasing problem of baboons in the region.
A message accompanying the photo shared online reads, "Parents take heed, baboons have become more daring and dangerous." It further explained that the child, identified as Brian Kapondora's son, had been rushed to the hospital following the attack. The community is now appealing to the Parks and Wildlife officials to assist in managing the escalating issue.
Baboons have long been a nuisance in Beitbridge, often venturing into people's homes and helping themselves to food and beverages. However, recent reports suggest that their behavior has become increasingly bold and threatening. In particular, women shoppers returning from Musina, South Africa, have fallen victim to attacks as baboons have learned to target plastic bags from popular grocery outlets such as Checkers, Spar, and Shoprite.
"They stealthily approach women, snatch those plastic bags and quickly slip under the bridge. They rarely attack men but can challenge children," said Tinos Moyo, an airtime vendor operating near the Old BeitBridge.
Another woman recounted a close call when a male baboon charged toward her while she was holding a bag of apples she had just purchased. She managed to escape by screaming and running to nearby men for help.
Local residents are growing increasingly concerned about the safety of children and women in Beitbridge as the baboon population continues to be a threat. Despite repeated incidents, Parks and Wildlife officials were unreachable for comment at the time of writing, leaving many to wonder what measures will be taken to curb the escalating conflict between humans and wildlife in the area.
As the situation worsens, it is clear that urgent action is needed to address the risks posed by the baboons and ensure the safety of Beitbridge's residents.
A message accompanying the photo shared online reads, "Parents take heed, baboons have become more daring and dangerous." It further explained that the child, identified as Brian Kapondora's son, had been rushed to the hospital following the attack. The community is now appealing to the Parks and Wildlife officials to assist in managing the escalating issue.
Baboons have long been a nuisance in Beitbridge, often venturing into people's homes and helping themselves to food and beverages. However, recent reports suggest that their behavior has become increasingly bold and threatening. In particular, women shoppers returning from Musina, South Africa, have fallen victim to attacks as baboons have learned to target plastic bags from popular grocery outlets such as Checkers, Spar, and Shoprite.
Another woman recounted a close call when a male baboon charged toward her while she was holding a bag of apples she had just purchased. She managed to escape by screaming and running to nearby men for help.
Local residents are growing increasingly concerned about the safety of children and women in Beitbridge as the baboon population continues to be a threat. Despite repeated incidents, Parks and Wildlife officials were unreachable for comment at the time of writing, leaving many to wonder what measures will be taken to curb the escalating conflict between humans and wildlife in the area.
As the situation worsens, it is clear that urgent action is needed to address the risks posed by the baboons and ensure the safety of Beitbridge's residents.
Source - southern eye
