“Dead” Hippo Charges Crowd And Kills 57‑Year‑Old Woman In Muzarabani

A 57‑year‑old woman was killed by a hippopotamus at Musingwa River in Muzarabani after the animal, wounded by game rangers, unexpectedly charged at onlookers.

Madreen Bangome was mauled while trying to escape the panicked scene.

Mashonaland Central provincial deputy police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Lucy Chigwenhese, confirmed the incident. She said:

“I can confirm a sudden death case at Musingwa River in Muzarabani, where Bangome was attacked by a hippopotamus.”

Chigwenhese said the hippo had been spotted at the river by a villager, who promptly alerted game rangers. The following day, the rangers returned armed with .458 Magnum Winchester rifles.

They fired three shots, and the hippo appeared to play dead before suddenly rising and charging at the crowd.

Onlookers scattered in all directions, but Bangome slipped on the riverbank and was bitten twice. She was rushed to Muzarabani Clinic, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

To prevent further tragedies, police have warned the public not to visit the Musingwa River. Said Chigwenhese:

“Avoid visiting or crossing the Musingwa River. Refrain from gathering near riverbanks, especially for fishing, washing or observing wildlife.

“Immediately report any sightings of hippopotamuses or other dangerous wildlife to the nearest police station or Muzarabani Rural District Council official.”

More: Bulawayo24

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