‘Intoxicated Driver Crashes into Clinic’
A intoxicated driver has been taken into custody after crashing a truck into the Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha, resulting in severe damage to the clinic’s operating theater.
The incident occurred at 6pm on Tuesday evening, just a day after another vehicle had collided with its fence.
Marcelle du Plessis, Mdzananda’s Executive for Fundraising and Communications, stated that the entire operating theater would need to be reconstructed. Furthermore, the clinic’s storage room was completely destroyed and requires immediate rebuilding.
Marcelle explained: “This damage is monumental, an extent we could never have anticipated or budgeted for. While we are devastated, we are also thankful that no animals or staff sustained any injuries.
Although operations will be significantly affected, the committed staff have vowed to continue treating animals and providing the best care possible, despite the reduced efficiency.
She added: “We are still functioning but not at our full capacity, which we could have maintained had this damage not occurred.
“The operating theater and storeroom were compromised, which are essential to the clinic. Fortunately, it is not where our homeless animals reside.”
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter have been serving the Khayelitsha community for 29 years, offering veterinary services, shelter, and humane education while caring for 1,500 animals monthly.
The clinic has initiated an emergency fundraising appeal to reconstruct the theater and restore full functionality.
“Every donation, regardless of size, will assist us in recovering from this calamity. Thank you for standing by us during this challenging time,” Du Plessis added.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that the drunken driver was apprehended and that the matter is currently under investigation.
Twigg reported: “Harare police are looking into a driving under the influence case following an accident where an adult male drove into a wall of a business premise on Govan Mbeki Road, Khayelitsha, on Tuesday, 2 September 2025, at around 18:00.
The suspect was arrested by Law Enforcement. The circumstances of the incident remain under investigation.”
Members of the public are encouraged to contribute towards the urgent rebuilding effort. Banking details: Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current Account, Branch Code: 198765, Account: 1314465147, Reference: damage + your name.