The Cape of Good Hope SPCA in collaboration with relevant law enforcement officers, managed to arrest three men for their participation in the management of dog fighting rings, during raids conducted in Eerste River and Ottery, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The SPCA collaborated with the City’s Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit and together these authorities successfully rescued twelve dogs over the course of five days.
The raids conducted in Ottery and Eerste River form part of an ongoing investigation into existing dogfighting rings in Cape Town.
The latest arrests have been described as a ‘major breakthrough.’
An operation instigated earlier this week resulted in the successful raid of two properties in the Eerste River area. The raid revealed seven dogs living in horrific conditions as well as a collapsed dogfighting pit, stained with blood.
The dogs were discovered, tied up in heavy chains and dehydrated. Female dogs were evidently being exploited for breeding purposes.
One suspect was arrested on the scene and the SPCA confirms their intention to arrest more perpetrators throughout the investigation process.
In the Ottery raid, five dogs were seized, two of which were clearly scarred from battles in these fighting rings.
Members of the team also managed to confiscate dogfighting paraphernalia, including a treadmill, a break-stick and medication.
Following the raid, two suspects were arrested and have since appeared in court.
Commenting on the grave issue, Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse, who led the operation, stated, ‘Dogfighting is one of the most heinous forms of cruelty, and we will not stop until those responsible are brought to justice. The suffering these dogs endure is unimaginable, and we are committed to ensuring they get the care they deserve while we fight for justice on their behalf.’
‘If you see something, say something. These dogs have no voice, but we do. Every report brings us one step closer to shutting down these operations and holding those responsible accountable.’
Alderman JP Smith also shared his concern for the ongoing issue, stating, ‘Dog fighting has no place in our society. Exposing humans to such grotesque violence only further desensitises us to the value of life. We must break this chain of violence.’
Donations to the SPCA, to aid them in their relentless pursuit of justice, can be made at this link.
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Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
