WARNING: Some visuals may be disturbing
A Strand couple faces criminal charges after allegedly assaulting an SPCA inspector who attempted to save four dogs from severe neglect that left two of the animals beyond medical help and had to be euthanised.
The alleged assault occurred after an inspection last Wednesday (15 October), when the Cape of Good Hope SPCA responded to a report about a “brown pitbull” suffering from a severe skin condition.
According to a media statement released by the animal welfare organisation, Inspector Lwazi Ntungele encountered immediate aggression on arriving at the property and obstruction from the occupant, who refused entry and claimed neighbours were “targeting” her.
It said from outside the property Ntungele observed clear signs of animal suffering: two puppies with severe skin conditions and an adult dog scratching incessantly in visible distress.
“The owner claimed the animals had seen a veterinarian ‘three weeks ago’, but could provide no proof. She became increasingly hostile, shouting at the inspector to ‘shut up’ and refusing to allow an inspection. With clear evidence of suffering and refusal of lawful access Ntungele applied for a warrant under Section 8 of the Animals Protection Act. The Strand Magistrates’ Court granted the warrant the following day.
“On [Thursday] 16 October Ntungele returned with Strand police officers to execute the warrant. The situation immediately escalated when the owner’s husband arrived and attempted to stop the rescue by punching the inspector in the face. Police officers intervened as the man resisted arrest, forcing them to call for back-up. During the chaos the wife also attacked the inspector, punching him in the face. Both suspects were arrested and taken to Strand Police Station, where they were formally charged.”
The statement further revealed that the duo have been charged with animal cruelty, obstruction of an authorised SPCA inspector and assault.
“Despite the physical attack, Ntungele ensured all four dogs were safely removed from the property. A veterinary examination revealed the SPCA’s worst fears. Two dogs were found suffering from advanced demodectic mange, causing intense itching, inflammation, open sores, and hair loss across their bodies. ‘Both dogs presented with severe mange infestations resulting in painful and extensive inflammation and hair loss across large areas of their bodies,’ the attending veterinarian reported. ‘The degree of skin damage is consistent with a prolonged and untreated infestation.’ The veterinarian concluded that both animals had endured prolonged, preventable cruelty. Due to irreversible skin damage and ongoing pain, humane euthanasia was the only option to prevent further suffering.”
Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse condemned the violence: “This case is a shocking reminder of the resistance our inspectors often face while protecting the voiceless, but our inspectors will not be intimidated. We will continue to fight for every single animal that suffers in silence.”
Ntungele has received medical attention and is recovering well. The SPCA thanks Strand police for their swift response under volatile conditions and will pursue justice for both the animals and the assaulted officer.
The two rescued dogs now remain in SPCA care, receiving medical attention and proper care.
- If you suspect animal cruelty contact the SPCA’s 24-hour Inspectorate Control Room on 021 700 4158 / 083 326 1604.
You must be logged in to post a comment.