Edenvale SPCA and Edenvale CPF are standing their ground in demanding evidence of the Edenvale tiger’s whereabouts and well-being.

A video of the tiger being spotted in the area went viral yesterday morning and confirmation that the tiger has safely been captured is yet to be confirmed.

SOS Security told the public it had assisted in sedating and capturing the tiger after it allegedly escaped onto the streets of Edenvale, Johannesburg.

However, SOS Security did not respond to a request for comment in response to the Edenvale SPCA’s statement issued last night.

Yesterday, Edenvale SPCA’s management committee stated that its staff and inspectors had not seen the tiger nor had the society received any confirmation that the tiger was safe or alive.

“We received no confirmation or proof from SOS Security – they have made statements on their social media platforms that the tiger had been captured and relocated.”

The tiger’s alleged escape resulted in increased speculation throughout the day.

“After reported sightings around the Eastleigh Ridge area, the animal was reportedly found but no details were provided on where, under what circumstances, and where the animal was taken,” the SPCA stated.

Edenvale SPCA’s secretary Jade de Bruyn said SOS Security was the only entity to state the tiger had been captured, sedated and relocated.

“SOS Security failed to provide information to the animal welfare organisation in this regard. SOS Security is not permitted, equipped, trained or experienced to handle wildlife, yet they have stated they have assisted in the capture of the tiger and moved it,” said De Bruyn.

A property in Eastleigh Ridge on Cabot Avenue was yesterday searched by members of the SAPS and Edenvale SPCA.

De Bruyn said SOS refused inspector Hope Mokalapa entry into the property where it was suspected the tiger had been kept.

“Multiple animals were seen in the home of the property owner,” he De Bruyn added and explained that only inspector Udo Salchow was granted permission onto the property.

De Bruyn yesterday told Bedfordview and Edenvale News that no evidence of a tiger was found at the property.

Edenvale CPF’s public relations officer Fiona Pickett said the forum was also unable to confirm if SOS Security had assisted with the sedation and relocation of the tiger.

“We continue to work with all parties involved in the investigation,” said Pickett.

De Bruyn emphasised that Edenvale SPCA would not confirm that this tiger is safe, alive or at a place of safety until the organisation has all the facts and evidence.

“What legal power do they [SOS Security] have to move a wild endangered species? The SPCA has to obtain permits for the relocation before moving an animal yet, SOS Security moved a tiger with no permits and continues to withhold information,” said De Bruyn.

Manager of Edenvale SPCA Marita Acar said the local branch is working closely with National SPCA in regards to further investigations.

A request for comment was sent to SOS Security requesting comment. Numerous emails were sent and phone calls were made, but no comment had been received at the time of publishing.