The increase in the shooting of vervet monkeys is prompting urgent calls for public vigilance and assistance in bringing perpetrators to justice.

Wildlife Rescue, a non-profit organisation led by Lindy Elmes, is at the forefront of responding to monkey shootings across KwaDukuza. The NPO celebrated its first anniversary on Monday.

In the last year Wildlife Rescue has assisted 412 injured wild animals. Over the past 12 months, one monkey was found shot dead, while 10 others had to be euthanised due to severe injuries or paralysis.

More than 60 monkeys involved in hit-and-run incidents also showed signs of being previously shot. Increasing numbers of live monkey also carry visible injuries.

“Many injured monkeys from car accidents have pellets inside them when X-rayed. What kind of person shoots defenceless animals?” asked Elmes.

In collaboration with KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife and the SAFE Foster Network, Wildlife Rescue has identified 25 addresses of suspected shooters in Ballito and Salt Rock. Paralysed monkeys often remain near the location they were shot, allowing authorities to trace incidents to specific homes.

Some residents have begun filming these events and reporting neighbours suspected of animal cruelty.

“We know who many of the shooters are, but we need evidence and eyewitnesses to come forward and open a criminal case,” said Janke.
“The difficulty is then getting people to testify in court.”

Under South Africa’s Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, discharging firearms or airguns in built-up areas is illegal. Offenders can also face charges of reckless endangerment, animal cruelty under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 or malicious damage to property.

“We want to make an example of these cowards,” said Elmes, who added that most monkeys injured by gunshots do not survive, and the suffering endured is immense, often involving paralysis or blindness.

“I stay with them while they are suffering. I hold them while they are being euthanised. It is heartbreaking.”

Wildlife Rescue operates at no cost to the public and urgently needs funding to continue rehabilitating injured animals.

To support their work, contact Wildlife Rescue via Facebook or call 083 607 4498.

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