Ncubeko Hloni, known as the ‘Dunoon puppy seller’, has been sentenced to three months in prison after being convicted of animal cruelty, illegally selling animals and escaping from lawful custody, Cape {town} Etc reports.
According to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Hloni appeared before Magistrate Nemuhuyuni at the Cape Town Central Magistrates’ Court on 2 September. The 22-year-old had been in custody since his re-arrest on 1 December 2025.
Puppies found in poor condition
The charges followed an incident in November 2025, when members of the public spotted Hloni trying to sell a puppy on Main Road in Green Point.
The puppy appeared lethargic and unwell. When people intervened, Hloni attempted to flee and the puppy suffered a broken leg during the struggle.
A second puppy was found inside his backpack, which had been zipped closed without ventilation. Both puppies were taken to a private veterinarian before being placed in the care of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
Hloni pleaded guilty to the charges. He admitted buying the animals for R150 and reselling them for R300.
The court imposed R3 000 fines on each of three sets of charges, with the sentences running concurrently. As Hloni could not pay the fine, he will serve three months in prison.
The case also followed a history of evading authorities. Hloni previously disappeared after being released on bail and escaped during a 2024 Law Enforcement sting operation.
In 2025, he escaped from Sea Point SAPS through an unsecured bathroom window. Dunoon residents later helped authorities locate and contain him before he was taken back into custody.
Former Cape of Good Hope SPCA Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse said after the re-arrest: ‘This city pays attention. There is no hiding from a community that refuses to look away.’
The SPCA also reminded residents that selling animals without the required City authorisation is illegal. Residents who witness unauthorised animal sales can report them to the City of Cape Town on 021 480 7700.
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Also read:
Update: Accused puppy seller to remain behind bars until 2026
Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
