They appeared at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, confronting a total of 11 criminal charges related to alleged animal cruelty and regulatory violations.
The charges include five counts under the Animals Protection Act, as well as two counts under the City of Cape Town Animal Keeping By-Law for keeping unsterilised dogs over six months of age and exceeding the number of animals permitted on a residential property.
In addition, they face a count under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA), two counts of fraud, and one count for contravening their bail conditions.
This matter originates from a raid conducted by SPCA Inspectors on 2 May 2025, following a warrant obtained from the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court. The raid was initiated after complaints and evidence indicated potential violations of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
Upon entering the premises, inspectors encountered disturbing conditions that raised serious questions about the treatment of the animals housed there. Numerous dogs were found tethered to short chains or ropes, severely limiting their movement and depriving them of access to clean drinking water.
In addition, some puppies were confined to inadequately small enclosures, with one appalling case involving a dog tethered to a tap within a congested pen.
Inside the residential structure, inspectors reported unbearable foul odours and extremely unsanitary conditions. Several dogs were confined to various rooms, including the kitchen and bathroom, where there were large accumulations of faeces, urine, and refuse.
It was reported that these animals had no access to clean drinking water, and distressing findings included additional puppies and a cat hidden behind furniture soaked with urine, surrounded by rotting food and contaminated water.
Worsening matters, the SPCA inspectors discovered containers of stagnant, discoloured water housing fish, including Nile Tilapia, which is an invasive species regulated under environmental legislation.
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Also read:
Update: Animal cruelty accused out on bail under strict rules
Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
