29/10/2025
CHASEFU HEADMAN FIGHTS AND KILLS LEOPARD IN DRAMATIC BUSH ENCOUNTER
By John Zgambo | Chasefu District | October 28, 2025
A shocking yet heroic incident unfolded in the early hours of today in Chasefu District when Headman Binwell Nyirenda of Chimulu Village, aged between 40 and 45, fought a fierce battle with a leopard and lived to tell the tale.
According to eyewitness accounts gathered,, Headman Nyirenda had gone to the nearby bush around 08:00 hours to cut trees for domestic use when the wild cat suddenly leapt out from the thickets, charging toward him. Armed only with an axe, the headman had little time to react.
In what many villagers have described as an act of extraordinary courage, Nyirenda engaged the leopard in a desperate fight for his life. The struggle lasted several tense minutes as the animal clawed and bit ferociously, but the headman managed to strike several decisive blows with his axe, eventually killing the leopard.
Speaking briefly after the ordeal, the visibly shaken but brave headman said,
“I just saw it coming from behind the bush. I had no choice but to defend myself. It was a matter of life and death.”
Villagers who rushed to the scene after hearing his cries for help found the dead leopard lying a few meters away, while the headman sustained minor injuries on his arms and legs.
Wildlife officers from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) have since been informed of the incident and are expected to visit the area to assess the situation. Early reports suggest that the leopard might have strayed from a nearby game management area in search of food.
Local residents have since praised Headman Nyirenda for his bravery, calling him “a true village hero.” However, authorities have reminded the public to exercise caution when entering bushy areas, as cases of wild animal encounters tend to increase during the dry season.
This rare and dramatic encounter has left the community of Chimulu both amazed and than ever.
© John