The Cape of Good Hope Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) said it will not be intimidating from saving animals after its inspectors were attacked during seizure of two dogs in Cape Town.
Earlier this week, inspectors accompanied by members of the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit were faced with violent resistance while attempting to seize dogs in Voorbrug in Delft.
A warrant was signed off for the seizure of the dogs in terms of the Animals Protection Act by the Bellville Magistrate’s Court.
“The warrant authorised SPCA Inspectors to seize two dogs found in appalling conditions, chained without sufficient shelter, deprived of drinking water, and forced to live in unsanitary conditions. Despite previous warnings issued to the owner to improve these conditions, compliance was ignored, leaving no choice but to intervene to protect the welfare of the dogs,” the Cape of Good Hope SPCA said.
During the execution of the warrant inspectors and Law Enforcement officers were attacked.
“During the execution of this warrant, the owner, accompanied by his sister and her boyfriend, launched an assault against the SPCA Inspectors and Law Enforcement Officers. Soon after, members of the local community joined in, surrounding the officers. The attackers physically assaulted the team, escalating the violence with bricks and even attempting to use a knife.
“As a result, both an SPCA Inspector and a Law Enforcement Officer were injured and required medical examination. Despite the aggressive attack, the officers were undeterred and successfully seized the dogs, who are now under the care and protection of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA,” the organisation said.
The suspects were arrested with backup from Law Enforcement Action Plan (LEAP) officers.
The suspects now face multiple charges including assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, assault on a Peace Officer, assault with a deadly weapon, damage to council property, and contempt of court. The dog’s owner, however, managed to escape and remains at large as the investigation continues.
Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse said they will not be intimidated from assisting animals in need.
“We have a legal duty to protect animals, and no one is above the law. We will ensure that these perpetrators face justice in the harshest terms. The SPCA Inspectorate often operates in high-risk areas, facing resistance while protecting animals and upholding the Animals Protection Act. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by animal welfare officers who frequently contend with hostile conditions to protect vulnerable animals from cruelty,” Inspector Pieterse said.
The SPCA expressed its sincere gratitude to the City of Cape Town for their continued support and partnership.
“Their collaboration remains vital in safeguarding animals from cruelty and ensuring the safety of our Inspectors in the field,” it said.
Residents are urged to report any animal cruelty or suspicious activities to the Inspectorate Control Room at 021 700 4158/9, email [email protected], or send a WhatsApp message to 021 700 4140. All reports are handled with the utmost confidentiality.