ONGOING investigations by the National Council of SPCA’s (NSPCA) Special Investigations Unit and the Provincial Organised Crime Unit have led to the arrest and detention of 10 dog fighters.
The dog fighters appeared in the Lenasia court on November 6.
Members of the Provincial Organised Crime Unit provided tactical support to the NSPCA inspectors and members of the SAPS Gauteng’s K9 Unit during the arrests.
This enabled the inspectors to rescue the animal victims.
“People who get gratification from dog fighting demonstrate that they have low empathy and would likely be willing to engage in violent behaviour. This is why it is imperative for action to be taken against the violence of dog fighting, not only by the NSPCA, but by other law enforcement authorities as well,” explained senior inspector Wendy Willson of the NSPCA Special Investigations Unit.
The 10 apprehended men represent eight different fighting kennel yards and include a mathematics teacher, a medical aid representative, a business owner, a security call centre operator and individuals portraying themselves as veterinarians.
“These are people who we walk side by side with, people who are considered upstanding and trustworthy members of our communities, people who we entrust our children with, our security with and even our animals with,” Willson explained.
The NSPCA expressed its appreciation for the assistance provided by the dedicated inspectors, SAPS K9 Unit and the Provincial Organised Crime Unit. They not only showed unwavering empathy for the canine victims of dog fighting, but also recognised the broader crushing effect that this violent crime has on a community and the associated crimes that accompany it.
The NSPCA Special Investigations Unit focuses primarily on combating active and premeditated crimes against animals.
The NSPCA also extended its thanks to the members of the public who support its ongoing endeavours to combat these crimes and make these rescues possible.
Should you wish to report something to the NSPCA, you can contact the office on 011 907 3590 or send an email to nspca@nspca.co.za. Alternatively, contact the 24-hour emergency number 071 626 0721 (Alberton SPCA) or 083 604 1172 (Johannesburg SPCA).
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