The Brakpan SPCA is appealing to residents to report the illegal use of airguns to police following reports from suburbs throughout Brakpan of animals being targeted.

According to the society, innocent pets, including beloved family cats, and local wild birds are being targeted, shot, and severely injured or killed.

The SPCA stated that the “my yard, my rules” myth is a dangerous misconception, and noted that private property is not exempt.

“The belief that because you are within the boundaries of your own private property, you can act however you want, is simply not true,” said the SPCA.

“Owning or renting a home does not grant you immunity from the laws of South Africa.

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“Your property boundary line does not block national legislation, and you are not exempt from criminal prosecution just because you are standing in your own garden.

“The law applies equally whether you are on a public street or behind your own closed gates.”

The society has also noted a concerning trend where airguns are bought for young children as gifts.

“We urge parents to realise that a pellet gun is a dangerous weapon, not a toy. Allowing children unsupervised access to these guns is highly irresponsible,” said the SPCA.

“We strongly appeal to all parents to ensure that these weapons are kept locked away safely and are never accessible to children without strict, responsible adult supervision.”

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What the law says about discharging an airgun (pellet gun) in suburbs:

• The Firearms Control Act No. 60 of 2000 (Section 120): It is a serious criminal offence to discharge an airgun in a built-up area or public place without a legally justifiable reason.
• The Animals Protection Act No. 71 of 1962: Cruelty to animals is a straight criminal offence. Anyone found to be intentionally targeting, injuring, or killing an animal with a pellet gun faces criminal prosecution.
• Ekurhuleni municipal by-laws: Local municipal laws strictly prohibit the discharging of any weapon, including pellet guns, BB guns, and gas guns, within residential zones.

“Many residents mistakenly believe they are allowed to shoot wild birds, stray cats, or animals they deem “pests” on their property,” said the SPCA.

“The law does not recognise this. Dealing with a nuisance animal is never a legally acceptable “good reason” to fire a weapon in a residential suburb.

“We are truly disappointed that members of our town are acting with such recklessness. This behaviour is unacceptable, inhumane, and it must come to an immediate end.”

The SPCA affirms it will actively investigate these cases, and where perpetrators can be identified, criminal charges will be laid to the fullest extent of the law. The society also appealed to members of the community to act as the SPCA’s eyes and ears.

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“If you hear a pellet gun being fired, see someone targeting animals, or if your own pet comes home injured, please report it immediately and ensure your pet gets veterinary help immediately,” said the SPCA.

“Try to gather evidence, such as photographs, videos, or the specific address of the perpetrator.

“Please, let us work together to bring back kindness and safety to Brakpan.

“We are doing everything we can, but we need our residents to stand up, take responsibility, and help us protect those who cannot speak for themselves.”

To report animal cruelty or illegal airgun use against animals, contact the SPCA on:

• WhatsApp: 071 695 3458
• Emergency line: 083 696 9052 (calls only)
• Email: inspectorate@brakpanspca.co.za

All illegal use of airguns must be reported to SAPS.