Cape Town - A group of minors between 15 and 17 years old were caught running a dogfighting ring in Tafelsig by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA and the City’s Animal Control Unit after they received a tip-off about the illegal events.
Seven dogs were rescued after information that the dogfighting was taking place behind the Swartklip Indoor Sports Centre. The dogs were still young and in the process of being trained for fighting by the group of minors.
City Law Enforcement spokesperson Wayne Dyason and SPCA chief inspector Jaco Pieterse agreed that dogfighting continued to be a major problem within Cape Town and said it occurred daily.
“Illegal dog fighting is a well-organised activity that is only discussed and planned among a few unknown syndicates who do it for financial gain. Unfortunately, the youth get involved in these illegal activities,” Dyason said
Pieterse said criminal charges were going to be laid against the culprits in terms of the Animals Protection Act as animal fighting was illegal in South Africa.
“The National Prosecuting Authority will need to decide on the way forward with these cases involving minors,” Pieterse said.
Pieterse said some of the dogs had old scarring from previous fights and some had bite wounds from the fight that took place on Friday.
These dogs were now in the care of the SPCA, receiving treatment and being assessed by their in-house animal behaviourist.
“Dogfighting is illegal in South Africa. It is cruel and barbaric and has no place in society. The court will make a decision regarding the outcome. If a person is found guilty for any involvement in dogfighting, a person can be fined as much as R80 000 and/or imprisonment for up to 24 months with a criminal record,” Dyason said.
Pieterse pleaded with the public to report cases of dog fighting to the SPCA on 021 700 4158/9, or after hours on 083 326 1604, or to send an email to [email protected]. He assured that their details will be kept confidential.
