The National SPCA has offered R20 000 for information on the perpetrators who tortured and set alight a baboon, fondly known as “Raygun.”
The vicious attack took place in Delmas, Mpumalanga, and has been shared in multiple videos on social media.
SPCA OFFERS REWARD FOR BABOON TORTURE AND KILLING
In a gruesome video and graphic images, a wild baboon is seen attempting to flee a crowd on the roof of the Botleng Secondary School in Delmas, Mpumalanga.
The animal – nicknamed Raygun – was cornered where it was stoned, beaten, and eventually set alight.
According to the SPCA, Raygun’s body was later mutilated, with his hands, feet, head, and heart cut from his body.
The animal rights activists have since issued a R20 000 reward for information leading to a successful conviction relating to those who were involved in harming Raygun. It is also seeking those who filmed the attack to come forward.
The attack on the animal came after ten children fainted on the school property earlier that day, leading to the belief that the baboon was “sent to cast a spell.”
“Help us find the truth”, the organisation pleaded on social media.
Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter of the SPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit claimed that the community was protecting the perpetrators’ identities.
He said: “We are horrified by this level of cruelty. Raygun was in search of freedom in a new territory – something all baboons do instinctively.
“No animal should ever endure such suffering and agony.”
Image via NSPCA
The SPCA has vowed to embark on a widespread awareness programme to educate the public about the lawful protection of wild animals.
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation can contact the NSPCA at [email protected]. They can also call 011 907 3590. All tip-offs will remain anonymous.
PROSECUTION UNDER ANIMALS PROTECTION ACT
The SPCA added that the man faces the provisional charges under section 2(1)(a), (n), (q), and (r) of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
The act – which was established to prevent the cruelty of animals – stipulates that those found guilty can face a fine or imprisonment.
Offenders could also face a denial of ownership – preventing them from owning animals – as well as a criminal conviction.
SHOULD ANIMAL CRUELTY OFFENDERS FACE THE FULL MIGHT OF THE LAW?
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