NSPCA MEDIA STATEMENT - ISSUED ON MONDAY 04 NOVEMBER 2013 / CONTACT: - NSPCA DEPUTY CEO on 082 411 0566 DOG FIGHTING - ARRESTS, CHARGES MASSIVE VIOLENCE AND UNBELIEVABLE SUFFERING In the largest successful raid on a dog fighting syndicate since 1995, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) confirms that 18 arrests were made and 14 pit bull type dogs were removed on 03 November 2013. The raid took place in Tsakane on the East Rand, near Brakpan and the NSPCA team was assisted by SAPS members with special operations skills. Violent/organised dog fighting was in progress when the NSPCA task team arrived: - just one of a planned series of fights. The NSPCA confirms that everyone present at the scene was involved in illegal dog fighting and active gambling and betting on the contests were taking place. An eye-witness member of the NSPCA task team reported that the scene was incredibly horrific and was shocked at the reality of the terrible suffering and violence experienced by these dogs. Reference was made to the extent of the injuries of some of the dogs, some so massively wounded as to be beyond salvation. The NSPCA shares the concerns of genuine pit bull lovers who may have had dogs stolen. Reassurance is given in this regard as none of the dogs rescued in last nights raid were stolen pets as each dog was bred by this fighting community and had been used for fighting for an extended period of time. Criminal charges were laid in terms of the Animal Protection Act No 71 of 1962. The accused are appearing in Court on Monday 04 November in a bail hearing. The dogs used in these events often die of blood loss, shock, dehydration, exhaustion or infection hours or even days after the fight and very seldom do they receive proper veterinary attention for their injuries. Hailing the raid, arrests and seizure of the dogs as a breakthrough, the NSPCA confirms that its investigations into this - and all - forms of cruelty to animals will continue. The media and public are asked to bear with us at this time as investigations continue and full details may only be revealed when there is no danger of hampering further enquiries or obtaining additional information. This raid proves the reality, horror and extreme cruelty of dog fighting: - a blight which needs to be eradicated from our society. Appreciation and thanks are expressed to the dedicated and professional individuals from the SAPS who assisted with this special operation.
Posted on: Mon, 04 Nov 2013 12:58:17 +0000
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