WHEN Detective Constable Nobesuthu Ndimande joined the police force, her mission was to fight crime and make a difference in her community. She never imagined that her journey would lead her to become a voice for the voiceless, the animals.

Raised in Zwelibomvu, just outside Mariannhill, Ndimande said her initial goal was to challenge the crime in her area.

“People have become used to shootings, it’s like no one cares anymore. I wanted to change that for the next generation. Our children are the future, and they need to learn that crime doesn’t pay,” she said.

However, her path took an unexpected turn when she found herself at the forefront of an animal cruelty case that made headlines where a number of dead cats were discovered in a Glen Park property. The carcasses were found in a granny flat at the back of the main house, abandoned by a tenant who later disappeared.

Also read: Dead abandoned cats found on Pinetown property

That tenant was recently sentenced to six months in prison, banned from owning animals for 10 years, and convicted on 16 counts of animal cruelty.

“My first animal cruelty case was of a neglected old dog in Padfield Park,” Ndimande recalled.

“It was there I met Inspector Petros Simamane from the Kloof and Highway SPCA who explained to me the kinds of cases they deal with – that is when I wanted to learn more and fight for animal justice.”

Since then, she has dealt with a range of animal cruelty cases which include incidents involving a crown eagle and even a chicken. “All these cases have left a lasting impression on me. These experiences have completely changed the way I see animals,” she said.

“I’ve realised how little people know about treating animals with care. I even learnt that you can do a scan or a postmortem on a chicken, something I never imagined.”

Now, Ndimande is considering adopting a dog.

“Being involved in these cases has made me appreciate animals so much more,” she said with a soft smile.

Ndimande speaks for the voiceless

Pinetown SAPS communications officer, Jennifer Naidu, said constable Ndimande’s dedication to animal-related cases is remarkable.

“As someone who has had the privilege of working closely with her, I’ve witnessed firsthand her passion and commitment to delivering justice for animal victims. She consistently keeps me informed about her cases, and her determination to see justice served is evident in every conversation.”

Naidu said what sets Ndimande apart is her unwavering commitment to treating animal cases with the same level of importance as any other case.

“She doesn’t differentiate; she gives each case her all, going the extra mile to ensure that justice is served. Among her colleagues, she’s gained a reputation for her tireless efforts and dedication to her work.”

Although she’s relatively new to the force, Naidu said Ndimande’s passion and drive are already making a significant impact.

“I have no doubt that she’ll become a leading expert in animal cases, and her dedication will inspire others to follow her example. With her commitment to justice, I believe she’ll be a pioneer in this field, setting a high standard for animal cruelty investigations and helping to bring perpetrators to justice.”

Naidu urges the community to report any instances of animal abuse to the Kloof and Highway SPCA and emphasised that perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions.

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