The driver who deliberately drove over two goslings, killing both, has been identified and charged by the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The upsetting incident was recorded on camera by several eyewitnesses, one of whom shared a video and images of it in a social media post. The post, shared by Western Cape media spokesperson Jessica Shelver, caused public outrage and prompted the CoGH SPCA to investigate details of the incident in order to find the driver responsible.
CoGH was able to find the individual and charges have been laid in contravention of the Animals Protection Act No.71 of 1962.
In an interview with Cape Talk, spokesperson for CoGH SPCA Belinda Abraham confirmed that legal steps have been taken to ensure the individual is held accountable.
“We have been able to identify the driver of the vehicle and on Tuesday submitted the docket to SAPS in the Cape CBD. Charges have been brought against the accused,” she said.
A family of eight Egyptian geese was crossing the road at an intersection of Spin and Adderley street in the CBD when the incident took place. Footage shows pedestrians attempting to stop the driver as the geese walk in front of the car.
Abraham revealed to News24 that the adult Egyptian geese were traumatized by the incident and did not want to leave the area.
“Egyptian geese are particularly bonded with their young,” she said.
The CoGH SPCA is currently waiting to hear from the investigations officer.
“We are just awaiting an update from the investigations officer,” said Abraham.
The CoGH SPCA revealed in a recent social media post that multiple forms of evidence have been submitted by the public, including graphic videos and photographs. All other witnesses are encouraged to come forward with any information.
“We are very grateful to the witnesses who have come forward and have already submitted statements as well as photographic and video evidence. We ask any other witnesses who saw this heinous display of disregard for and cruelty towards animals to please report their account of the events to the CoGH SPCA … on 021 700 4158/9 [during office hours], on 083 326 1604 [after-hours] or via email [to] [email protected].”
Locals have come together to provide help in identifying the accused and the CoGH SPCA is very thankful for the help.
“If I may just say such a big thank you to the Cape Town community for the way they [have] rallied around and supported us,” she said.
Picture: Facebook/ Cape of Good Hope SPCA
