Arrests made in dog fighting ring
In the largest successful raid on a dog fighting syndicate since 1995, 18 arrests were made and 14 pit bull type dogs were confiscated in Tsakane on Sunday evening.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) confirmed on Monday that they had performed the raid in assisted by the SAPS.
“Violent/organised dog fighting was in progress when the NSPCA task team arrived, just one of a planned series of fights. “The NSPCA confirms that everyone present at the scene was involved in illegal dog fighting and active gambling and betting on the contests were taking place,” says the release issued by the NSPCA.
An eye-witness member of the NSPCA task team reported that the scene was “incredibly horrific” and was shocked at the reality of the terrible suffering and violence experienced by these dogs.
Reference was made to the extent of the injuries of some of the dogs, some so massively wounded they were beyond salvation.
“The NSPCA shares the concerns of genuine pit bull lovers who may have had dogs stolen. Reassurance is given in this regard as none of the dogs rescued in last night’s raid were stolen pets as each dog was bred by this fighting community and had been used for fighting for an extended period of time.”
Criminal charges were laid in terms of the Animal Protection Act No 71 of 1962. The accused appeared in court on Monday in a bail hearing. The outcome of this case was not available at the time of going to print.
“The dogs used in these events often die of blood loss, shock, dehydration, exhaustion or infection hours or even days after the fight and very seldom do they receive proper veterinary attention for their injuries.
“Hailing the raid, arrests and seizure of the dogs as a breakthrough, the NSPCA confirms that its investigations into this – and all – forms of cruelty to animals will continue.”
