Police condemn hunting with dogs

In a statement, the police said the practice threatens the existence of the oribi, blue crane and other crane species.

“Illegal hunting with dogs includes any action of an individual or a group to gain access to private or government property with the intent to use dogs to catch, steal or kill wildlife or cattle. Wildlife and cattle are usually hunted for food. When a group of organised individuals unlawfully enter a farm with starving or trained hunting dogs, the dogs chase down prey animals and rip them apart. Targets are also killed with knives, spears, or blunt instruments such as knobkerries,” they said in the statement.

The police further said illegal hunting with dogs is not only a threat to biodiversity but also the safety of farmers and their families.

“Illegal hunters often work in groups and are mostly, heavily armed.” Farmers are cautioned to never take matters into their own hands should they spot these illegal hunters. “Contact your local farmers’ association or your security company before approaching the illegal hunters. It is always better to have other witnesses present. Should you reasonably suspect that someone has wrongfully and unlawfully stolen, caught or taken possession of the game, you may search such a person and his or her car, if applicable. In addition, you can arrest them without a warrant, in terms of the Game Theft Act, 1991 (Act 105 of 1991).”

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In a case where farmers suspect that someone has entered their farm, kraal or shed to steal stock, or if they are already in possession of the stock and they cannot give a satisfactory account of the possession thereof, they may search such a person and his or her car, if applicable.

“You can arrest them without a warrant, in terms of the Stock Theft Act, 1959 (Act 57 of 1959). Remember, it is an offence to search or arrest someone without probable cause. Contact the police as soon as possible. You can lay further charges of trespassing and animal cruelty against the illegal hunters. You can also institute action against them and claim damages,” the police said.

On whether the dog used during illegal hunting can be shot, the police said it depends on where your farm is located.

“The legal position is regulated by a nature conservation ordinance, applicable to one of the four old provinces, or by more recent provincial legislation promulgated after 1994. In some provinces, only a game ranger or a member of the SAPS may shoot stray dogs. We strongly advise farmers to seek legal advice in this regard. It is always risky to shoot first and ask questions later.”

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Police further said farmers should be careful not to shoot at dogs if their owners are nearby.

“It often happens that illegal hunters disperse, only to return with the SAPS in tow. The farmer is then accused of attempted murder and pointing a firearm at the illegal hunters. This is an uncomfortable situation to be in. Should you find yourself in such a tight spot, you can attempt to claim that you acted in self-defence,” said the police.

* Compiled by WO Marobo Seabela.