Theft leaves Westonaria SPCA on the brink of closure
In a sad turn of events, the SPCA's Westonaria branch will be closing indefinitely if they cannot repair the infrastructure after a theft.
The RandWest SPCA’s Westonaria branch may have to shut its doors forever following a theft incident.
On the night of February 17, the corrugated iron roof at the property as well as a fridge were stolen.
According to RandWest SPCA chairperson Brenda Eloff, they now have to close their doors to the community until the building is fixed. She added if they are not able to repair the damages, they have no other choice than to shut the branch down completely.
She added they are still waiting for quotations to know the exact building materials they will need, however, the rain is dramatically slowing the process. She added they will also need security to install beams. The branch’s blade fencing has also been stolen piece by piece in certain areas.
“It is a regular coincidence at the SPCA. I think we are being targeted because we are situated in a remote area and both of our branches are surrounded by zama zamas [illegal miners],” Eloff mentioned.
The theft has a big impact on the SPCA, especially on the animals. In January alone the SPCA took in about 400 animals.
“I am angry and despondent. We have been working restlessly the past five years just to keep the doors open,” she said.
The SPCA is currently in need of committee members. They are also in need of donations to help repair the infrastructure.
If any donations can be made, contact the SPCA on 011 412 3114 or 078 911 0789.
