Overstrand Municipality has officially opened an inquiry docket with Kleinmond police following the death of an adult female baboon found in Pringle Bay on 1 December 2025.
The investigation was formally launched on 5 February, with the two-month delay attributed to the need for confirmation on correct ordinances and office closures during the December-January holiday period.
The baboon’s body was discovered with no immediately obvious cause of death visible at the scene. Initial observations showed no signs of poisoning, gut compaction or visible entry wounds, with only a small tail injury apparent.
However, a veterinary examination revealed significant internal findings. The autopsy discovered a large blood clot caused by internal bleeding around the recto-anal junction, with three projectiles retrieved from this area. X-rays revealed five additional projectiles elsewhere in the body, though these caused no recent wounds or bleeding.
“The blood loss could have been the cause of death, and the bleeding itself could have been caused by a sharp object or a projectile, but this could not be confirmed,” said the Municipal Manager of the Overstrand Municipality, Dr Dean O’Neill.
While the cause of death cannot be definitively linked to the projectiles and no current leads exist, authorities have handed all evidence to Kleinmond police station. The public is encouraged to contact Kleinmond SAPS on 028 271 8200 with any relevant information.
The municipality has reminded residents that discharging firearms in residential areas is illegal, and baboons are protected under the Nature Conservation Ordinance. Only trained municipal staff hold permits to implement the adaptive management plan using non-lethal techniques.
Officials stress that illegal actions disrupt baboon social structures and complicate management efforts aimed at moving troops to their natural habitat.
Residents can help by baboon-proofing bins, securing windows and doors when troops are nearby, removing food sources, and using water deterrents. For assistance residents can contact the Baboon Hotline at 069 151 5962.
The municipality emphasises that successful baboon management requires community-wide cooperation to protect both wildlife and residents.
