UNSUSPECTING Kuwadzana Extension residents are reportedly buying dog meat from rogue youths who parade it as goat or buck meat.
The scam came to light at the weekend after carpark owner Learnmore Chinhoyi’s dog fell victim to the culprits, only identified as Gi-i-joe and Bhunu.
The carpark owner’s dog – which has brought the scandal to light – allegedly went missing for two days last week before its remains were found in a field on the outskirts of the suburb following a tip-off by a sympathiser.
“I was alerted to the whereabouts of the dog by some sympathisers (names withdrawn),” Chinhoyi said.
He said a visit to the said field led to the discovery of his dog’s rotting remains – the skin, intestines and head.
“This is not the first of my dogs have gone missing. Presently, I am unaware of the whereabouts of about 12 of my dogs. These have gone without a trace,” Chinhoyi added.
Further investigations into the issue led the dog-owner to the doorstep of Zanu PF ward 44 chairperson, Peter Makaza, who allegedly unknowingly bought the entire carcass.
On arrival at the Zanu PF official’s home, Chinhoyi allegedly bumped into the youths said to have sold Makaza the bounty and had come for their outstanding balance.
Zim Morning Post called Makaza to get his side of the story.
Initially, the recipient of our call said he was Makaza, later making a volte-face after this publication raised the dog-meat issue.
Later during the call, a woman who identified herself as Makaza’s wife confirmed their identity.
“We are the Makazas and stay in Kuwadzana Extension, but currently we are in Masvingo,” she said.
The wife, however, refuted allegations they had bought dog meat.
“That is not true. We never bought any dog meat,” said the woman.
Kuwadzana Extension residents told this publication that the cheap meat doing the rounds in the suburb as goat or buck meat was now cause for concern.
Meanwhile, the cost of meat in butcheries around the country has risen astronomically, causing citizens to mostly go without the commodity for days on end.
