A 39-year-old man has died after allegedly being attacked by two pitbull dogs in Vryburg, in South Africa’s North West province. Police have confirmed that an inquest has been opened as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident continue.
Officers were called to a local hospital on Thursday, January 2, 2026, after receiving a report related to an inquest. Upon arrival, police were directed to a surgical ward, where the man was found lying in a hospital bed with no signs of life.
Injuries Consistent With Dog Bites
According to police, the deceased sustained multiple wounds and scratches to his hands and legs. These injuries are believed to be consistent with dog bites, although the full post-mortem report is still pending.
Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) reportedly transported the man to hospital at approximately 02:30 on Thursday morning. Despite medical intervention, he later succumbed to his injuries on Friday evening.
The man is believed to have been a Pakistani national who was either renting a room or living as a tenant at the property where the alleged attack took place.
Dogs Linked to Previous Incident
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the pitbulls involved were not first-time offenders. Police confirmed that a previous case involving the same dogs is already on record and is scheduled to be heard at the local Magistrates’ Court in February.
This revelation has raised serious questions around animal control, enforcement of existing regulations and the responsibilities of dog owners when earlier warnings or incidents have already been recorded.
Dogs Euthanised After Consultation
Following discussions with the dogs’ owner, authorities confirmed that both pitbulls were euthanised on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Police have not indicated whether further charges against the owner may follow, pending the outcome of the inquest.
At this stage, no arrests have been made.
Investigation Continues
Police have emphasised that the investigation remains ongoing and that all circumstances surrounding the incident are being examined. The inquest will aim to determine whether negligence or other factors played a role in the man’s death.
The incident has once again highlighted growing public concern around dangerous dogs, repeat attacks and the balance between animal ownership rights and community safety.
