Three suspects were arrested during a raid on an organised dogfighting event in Saxonsea, Atlantis, on Saturday, October 9. The trio was detained as well four dogs that were impounded by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA and are currently undergoing veterinary attention.
According to a statement by the SPCA, Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse and Inspector, Mark Syce discovered two dogs actively fighting and suspects attempting to flee the scene.
” The severely injured dogs were taken for veterinary treatment with multiple lacerations and puncture wounds,” the statement said.
Chief Executive Officer, Moyo Ndukwana said also indicated that all law enforcement agencies are needed in the fight against the scourge of dogfighting and associated callous acts of animal cruelty.
The City of Cape Town’s Mayco Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith mentioned further that dog-fighting continues to plague communities as it is often used as a means to recruit youth into gangs, as they are sensitized to gruesome acts of violence and death.
” We need to fight this scourge with the help of our communities. Any suspicion of dog-fighting or any information can be passed on anonymously, to our Public Information Call Centre, on 021 480 7700,” Smith said.
Meanwhile, the investigation is ongoing and further suspects are being traced and will be arrested. The suspects were taken into custody by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Atlantis. A vehicle used to transport the fighting dogs was also impounded.
SPCA’s warning
Dogfighting is illegal in South Africa. A person found guilty of any involvement in dogfighting is liable for a fine of R80,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 24 months with a criminal record.
It is a crime to be involved in any manner with the fighting of animals or to own, keep, train or breed animals used for fighting. It is also illegal to buy, sell or import these animals. Moreover, it is a criminal offence to incite/encourage or allow any animal to attack another animal or proceed to fight and It is a crime to promote animal fighting for monetary gain or entertainment.
Picture: Unsplash
