Vicious dog attacks five

A dog attacked five people when it escaped from a Malvern property after a gate had been left open.

The dog went on the rampage at the corner of Marathon and St Fransquin streets on April 17.

According to an eyewitness, the dog got out from the property and charged at people.

“The dog was vicious. It attacked anything in its path. Those who tried to help, were also attacked,” said a resident who wished not remain anonymous.

Residents told the EXPRESS it was not the first time the dog had attacked a person.

In the most recent incident, the animal attacked 46-year-old Joseph, who was walking home from work.

“As I was approaching the property from where the dog had escaped, I noticed it was already attacking another person. I tried to help but the dog then focused on me. It attacked me and bit my left thigh,” said Joseph.

He tried to fight it off and the dog left him to attack a third man who was on duty as a technician for a telecommunications company.

Joseph said he and other victims were transported to Malvern Clinic for treatment.

“I was given an injection and treatment in case the dog had rabies. I was discharged later,” said Joseph.

Ms Xoli Tetana, a resident in the area, said she intends initiating a petition on behalf of residents to ensure the dog does not attack anyone in future.

“The dog is vicious and one wonders how it was let loose to roam the streets. There are school children who use this street,” said Ms Tetana.

Constable Faith Ndubane from the Cleveland SAPS, confirmed a case was opened and criminal charges are being investigated.

“We have statements from two people. Five people were attacked. We have been struggling to get hold of the dog owner. We have spoken to the owner of the house,” said Const Ndubane.

Residents provided the EXPRESS with contact details for the animal’s owner. The man denied being the owner of the dog. He claimed to have no knowledge of the incident. He only acknowledged being a Malvern resident.

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