Three suspects were arrested in Strand following an intensive investigation into dogfighting.
According to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, the investigation began following an anonymous tip-off. Inspector Werner Taljaard initiated the investigation and managed to gather sufficient evidence to trace the suspects which led to the three dogs who were used for dogfighting being confiscated and rescued.
“Investigating matters of dogfighting takes a lot of time, manpower and resources. We have to spend a fortune to ensure the safety of the dogs to avoid them from being stolen and used for fighting again,” says Chief Inspector, Jaco Pieterse.
The dogs are safe in the care of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, however, for their safety and that of our staff, dogs rescued from dogfighting are not kept on the SPCA premises. They are kept at a secure offsite location,” says the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
Charges of animal fighting were laid against all three suspects at the Strand police station and they are set to appear before the Strand Magistrates Court.
A year has passed since the Cape of Good Hope SPCA and City of Cape Town Law Enforcement joined forces.
The partnership stemmed from a close working relationship in the quest to eradicate dogfighting activities in Cape Town.The parties have joint responsibility with The SPCA as custodian of the Animal Protection Act and Law Enforcement as the custodian of the City Bylaws which both govern and impact on issues pertaining to dogfighting. Since the announcement, in March 2021 the Cape of Good Hope SPCA has made good on its promise to bring dogfighters to book with several arrests made to date.
This year, five dogfighting related cases have been prosecuted one of which has already concluded in a successful conviction. Four cases are waiting to be finalised by the courts.
“We are calling on the public to assist our anti-dog fighting efforts by making a small donation. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is the only animal welfare organisation in Cape Town experienced and capable of investigating dogfighting matters. We need the support of the public to continue with the good work we do. Special thanks to the Strand SAPS officers for their patience and assistance in this matter,” concludes the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
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