The SA Mast Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha is pleading for Xhosa-speaking councellors to support staff after a violent armed robbery on Friday, April 24. Three of the five robbers had firearms and held some of the clinic personnel at gunpoint, demanding cash, cell phones and laptops.

“One of the young robbers almost shot one of my staff because he didn’t have any money to give them,” said Clinic founder Tamsin Nel. “He stood on his chest, pointing a gun at his head. Another staff member offered up the R30 that he had in his pocket.”

The incident has left the staff severely traumatised. The clinic also needs new phones and laptops to be able to continue their work.

The clinic operates the largest area specific mass animal sterilisation campaign in Africa, according to their website. “This, along with the provision of an animal ambulance, hospital for the sick and injured, massive kennel building and distribution programme (almost 5000 to date) and other community empowerment initiatives where it is most needed, is our contribution to the compassionate development and well-being of our Rainbow Nation,” the clinic states.

The clinic is already facing a tough financial situation as many donors impacted by COVID-19 were forced to pull out and without funding, the organisation might have to close its doors.

Anyone who is able to help in any way can email [email protected] or visit their website here for more information.

Source: Cape Talk

Picture: Pixabay

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