Tourist under investigation after dog is thrown from AIRPORT balcony
The three-story fall was not fatal to the dog instead it sustained grave injuries, lying on the ground bleeding and struggling.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has launched a thorough investigation following a disturbing incident involving a tourist who allegedly threw her dog from a balcony at OR Tambo International Airport on November 8.
The incident was first reported to Senior Inspector Arno de Klerk at around 11:00 when a State Veterinary officer called the NSPCA to notify them of an incident involving severe animal abuse.
The tourist, a French national traveling from France to Johannesburg en route to Brazil, arrived in South Africa on November 6.
On the morning of November 8, security footage captured her strolling through OR Tambo’s Atrium area with her small black dog.
The footage then appears to show the woman lifting her dog and throwing it over the balcony railing.
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The three-story fall was not fatal, but the dog sustained grave injuries, lying on the ground bleeding and struggling for life.
Airport staff immediately alerted the Kempton Park SPCA, whose inspectors arrived on the scene to assist the severely injured animal.
Veterinary professionals confirmed that the dog had suffered extensive internal injuries and ultimately had to be humanely euthanised.
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Officials at OR Tambo International Airport promptly suspended the tourist’s flight to Brazil as they searched for her within the airport.
Despite a thorough check of the passenger manifest, she was not listed among those who had boarded the flight.
Senior Inspector Denise Govender from the NSPCA was assigned to pursue criminal charges against the woman with the local South African Police Service (SAPS).
The NSPCA expressed its profound shock and condemnation of the incident.
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In a statement, they affirmed their dedication to ensuring justice, pledging that they would not rest until those responsible for animal cruelty face the consequences.
“The NSPCA remains steadfast in its commitment to hold accountable anyone involved in animal cruelty, regardless of nationality or age.”
This is a developing story and the Kempton Express awaits comment from the SAPS regarding the matter.
