Residents in parts of Bulawayo’s Ward 17 say they are living in fear following reports that a leopard with cubs has been spotted in the area.
Ward 17 covers Pumula North, a portion of Pumula South, Dunstal Farm, Hydepark Village, Mazwi, St Peters village and Robert Sinyoka.
Concerned locals reported the sighting to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), prompting an investigation.
However, ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo told CITE that there was no evidence to suggest a leopard was roaming the area.
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“We received the report, but when our team inspected the site, they only found jackal footprints. As a result, we are ruling out the presence of a leopard,” he said.
He added that authorities were continuing their search.
“We resumed the search this morning, but we have not yet located the animal. We urge residents to report any new information that may help us determine its whereabouts.”
Despite ZimParks’ findings, some residents remain uneasy.
A local resident, who spoke to CITE, said fears were growing among the community.
“Many people claim to have seen a leopard with cubs in the area. Some villagers in the peri-urban parts have also reported losing goats to an unidentified predator,” the resident said.
“We hope ZimParks will act swiftly to resolve the issue.”
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any further sightings.
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