Dog-fighting ring evidence allegedly ‘lost’

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“The evidence that we collected at the crime scene was sealed in a bag and was sent to the SAP13 to be kept in the evidence locker; this evidence went missing, and now we have opened a case against the Tsakane SAPS,” says National Council of SPCA’s (NSPCA’s) Esti Kotze.
Kotze told the Advertiser that several meetings were held with the Tsakane SAPS after the fact, and the matter was reported to the provincial commissioner, who will apparently investigate the Tsakane SAPS.
The NSPCA applauded the decision made by the courts recently to deny bail to 13 of the 18 suspects being detained in connection with the dog-fighting ring charges, however, not long after, on Monday, November 18, they were granted bail with a warning.
“We need to set an example in this matter against animal cruelty,” Kotze adds.
“One of our inspectors was called to the stand to testify on how severe this case is, and we asked to oppose bail, but this was not granted.
“They were given a warning and told to surrender any domestic animals they might have to the Brakpan SPCA before a set date. They have also been warned against intimidating witnesses.”
The charges against the masterminds behind the dog-fighting ring were laid under Animals Protections Act section 2A.
If found guilty, those involved may face 15 years imprisonment or a R300 000 fine, each.
Kotze says the people involved in the ring are from across the East Rand, including Boksburg.
The actions of the people involved resulted in extreme abuse.
The NSPCA’s Jaco Pietersen says the organisation is saddened that eight of the remaining dogs removed during the NSPCA dog-fighting bust that took place in Tsakane, on Sunday, November 3, and reported on by the Advertiser, had to be euthanased by a veterinarian due to the seriousness and extent of their injuries and suffering.
The NSPCA adds that it is sickened by the heartlessness of the individuals who have utilised these animals in this horrific blood sport to feed their egos and enrich themselves financially.
”The NSPCA commits ourselves to ensuring that justice is served for these dogs, only one of which was able to be saved,” says Pietersen.
“We will do everything in our power to ensure that those responsible for these horrendously violent crimes receive the maximum penalty available under the law.”
The organisation also extends its appreciation to the tremendous support and encouragement from the public and animal-lovers nationwide.
“The outrage of the South African public in this case has sent out a clear message to all persons who conduct themselves without feeling and subject animals to lives of misery and distress – their actions will not go unchallenged,” Pietersen says.
“Let the images of the dogs brutalised in this case remain as sad reminders of the cruelty that takes place around our country and reinforce our combined conviction as animal-lovers that we need to remain vigilant and take whatever steps are needed to eradicate the abusive treatment of animals.
“Pitbulls used and bred for fighting are the victims in this organised crime and we need to join forces to report, reveal and remove pitbull fighters from our society.”.
The case will once again be heard in court on December 3.
The NSPCA reaches out to people, urging them to come forward with any crimes against animals.
Whistleblowers and witnesses will be protected by the NSPCA, and they may contact their local police station with information, e-mail the NSPCA on nspca@nspca.co.za, or call 011 907 3590.