Maseru — The owner of the seven dogs that attacked a 12-year-old boy, Mr. Tsoeu Petlane, has broken his silence after facing widespread criticism on social media over his handling of the incident.

Mr. Petlane had been accused by some members of the public of showing arrogance and a lack of compassion towards the family of 'Nete Leotlela, who was seriously injured after being attacked by seven German Shepherd dogs at Petlane's residence. 

It is alleged that the boy entered the yard by mistake before the attack occurred. Critics questioned why Petlane had remained silent while Basotho from different sectors of society mobilised to raise funds to assist the family with the growing medical expenses, including the cost of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.

Responding to the criticism, Mr. Petlane said he has been working closely with Leotlela's family since the incident. 

He said their relationship has remained positive and that he hopes they will continue working together until the boy has fully recovered from his injuries. 

Leotlela has been receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Medi-Clinic Hospital in Bloemfontein for about three weeks. He was taken out of the ICU a few days ago.

Mr. Petlane said progress is being made towards the boy's recovery and that his family is providing all the support they can while also working with Leotlela's family on a long-term plan to assist with his rehabilitation and healing.

Meanwhile, Basotho from various organisations and community groups have united to raise funds to help cover Leotlela's medical expenses. The 12-year-old lost both ears and his lower lip during the attack.

A fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy has attracted more than 180 donors and has so far raised over M100,000. In addition, Basali ba Pitiki have raised approximately M90,000. Among the major contributors, Minister of Communications, Mrs. Nthati Moorosi, pledged M15,000, while Mrs. Mahlala and Lephema pledged M10,000 and M15,000, respectively.

Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso also launched a ‘KicktheBall, Score a Goal For Life’ fundraising campaign towards Leotlela’s healing on July 21.