Chaos and squealing erupted when the Cape of Good Hope SPCA confiscated close to 100 pigs from makeshift pens in Sir Lowry’s Pass on Thursday 13 November.
The operation took place around 10:00 at animal pens located along the railway line behind Van Aarde Street. SPCA representatives, accompanied by Somerset West police’s Public Order Policing Unit and the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit, entered the pens as a large group of residents gathered to witness the operation.
Onlookers watched as officials wrangled the animals trying to evade capture. One sow attempted to charge at an Animal Control Unit member carrying piglets to safety cages. The Somerset West heat amplified the smells of pigs and mud.
Belinda Abraham, SPCA spokesperson, said the operation and confiscation followed the SPCA approaching Somerset West Magistrates’ Court to obtain a court order to remove 96 pigs. This gave the animal protection agency permission to inspect and seize animals after they had highlighted welfare concerns to owners on previous warnings.
“Since May this year the SPCA has actively attempted to work with these informal pig farmers to uplift the welfare of their animals,” Abraham explained.
It is very unfortunate that they have not cooperated, resulting in the necessity to approach the courts in this matter.
She further outlined the organisation’s main concerns, which included inadequate shelter for the animals, no access to fresh drinking water and unsanitary living conditions scattered with hazardous litter. Some of the pigs had untreated medical issues, Abraham added. “In addition, surrounding residents were complaining about the stench emanating from the pens.”
Following the operation the pigs were transported by SPCA representatives trained in humane animal handling. The animals were moved using approved safety standards and are now safely housed at the SPCA’s farmyard, where “all their welfare needs have been met.” The SPCA said the animals will remain in their care until the case concludes.
Norman McFarlane, Ward 84 councillor, also attended the operation, saying the removal of the animals was necessary. “These animals are being mistreated,” he pointed out, further questioning the legality of housing the animals in pens alongside a railway line.
Abraham declined the opportunity to comment on the location of the pens, stating it was a matter that should be addressed with the landowner. The specific zoning of the tract of land was not known at this stage. “The SPCA’s interest is in the well-being of the animals only,” Abraham explained.
She added that the owners of the pigs would be identified only once they come forward to claim their animals. “The investigation is still underway, but owners may face charges of animal cruelty”.
Helderberg community activist Christiaan Steward has come forward on behalf of one of the owners, denouncing the confiscation, questioning its legality and demanding the immediate return of the animals.
They demolished the pens that she (the owner) had just recently upgraded.
He alleged the owner was treated unfairly, stating the confiscation is “theft”. Steward said they will approach the police to lay criminal charges.
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