CAPE TOWN – The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has launched a criminal investigation following the circulation of video footage on social media showing a donkey being subjected to cruelty in Mamre, outside Atlantis. The footage showed the animal visibly straining under the excessive weight of four people whilst being whipped in an attempt to make it move faster.

The incident, which sparked public outrage, came to the attention of the SPCA after the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary approached the organisation with information from a witness. Further complaints alleged the donkey had been subjected to repeated abuse over an extended period.

Inspector Yaaseen Abrahams led the investigation, but was initially denied access to the property. The SPCA believes this was an attempt to remove and conceal the donkey from inspectors.

The organisation subsequently obtained a warrant from the Atlantis Magistrates’ Court in terms of the Animals Protection Act, authorising entry onto the premises and seizure of the animal.

However, when the warrant was executed, the donkey had been removed from the property. With assistance from members attached to Atlantis police and the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit, the owner was arrested for concealing the animal from an SPCA inspector.

The family contacted the SPCA the following day and voluntarily handed the donkey over to inspectors. The animal is now in the care of the organisation.

The investigation into the allegations of animal cruelty remains ongoing, with further charges expected under the Animals Protection Act.

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The SPCA warned that concealing an animal from an inspector is a criminal offence carrying a penalty of up to R40 000 and/or imprisonment of up to 12 months, together with a criminal record.

“The law exists to protect animals from cruelty and suffering. We will not hesitate to use every legal avenue available to us to ensure that offenders are held accountable,” Abrahams said.

The SPCA thanked Atlantis SAPS and the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit for their assistance in the arrest and recovery of the donkey.

Members of the public can report incidents of animal cruelty and neglect to the SPCA’s 24/7 Inspectorate Control Room on 021 700 4158/9, by email to inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za or via WhatsApp to 021 700 4140. All complaints are treated confidentially.

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