The police have launched an investigation into the mysterious deaths of approximately 500 cattle in Mutoko, whose carcasses have recently flooded social media.
Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, said that investigations are in progress.
“The circumstances surrounding the slaughter of about 500 animals in Mutoko are being looked into by police. When the investigations are finished, we will release a thorough statement,” he declared.
It has been suggested by some villagers through audio and video recordings that certain Muslims were killing animals for blood, leaving the meat for the villagers to consume.
Sheikh Ishmail Duwa, the president of Zimbabwe’s Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, responded to these assertions using H-Metro.
“Social media has informed us about the ritualistic slaughter of animals in Mutoko. Since then, we’ve started looking into whether Muslims are behind this or if it’s an attempt to damage Islam’s reputation.”
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He explained the Islamic background of animal sacrifice:
“Yes, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha, a holiday in which animal sacrifices are performed as part of their religious rites. The celebration honors the Prophet Abraham (Ishmael) for his willingness to offer his son Ismail (Ishmael) as a sacrifice in submission to God. Muslims slaughter sheep, goats, cows, or camels on Eid al-Adha, and the flesh is given to the underprivileged and needy.”
Sheikh Duwa underlined the intention and character of the ceremony:
“The sacrifice is made to remember Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to offer his son as a sacrifice, to express thanks to Allah for His favors, and to show that one is obedient to God’s instructions. Every year, the celebration takes place on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the Islamic month, which falls roughly seventy days after Ramadan. 500 Cattle in Mutoko
