EMPD horse feed situation under control metro says
CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the department has issued a mini-tender to appoint a temporary supplier.
Allegations have been made to the Benoni City Times (sister paper of the Springs Advertiser) that horses under the care of the EMPD Equestrian Unit, based in Zesfontein Agricultural Holdings, are starving and in an emaciated condition.
A concerned community member raised the alarm over the welfare of the animals after seeing a WhatsApp message in a community group from the station commander who allegedly asked for food donations for the horses.
The situation is reportedly due to a hold-up within council regarding the appointment of a contractor to procure food for the animals.
The City Times requested comment from the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) to shed light on these allegations.
While neither denying or confirming the claims, the city stated they take any concerns about the horses’ welfare seriously and are actively addressing the situation.
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CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the EMPD Equestrian Unit is committed to the care and well-being of its horses.
He added they monitored the horses daily and ensured they received adequate care and nutrition to maintain their health and readiness for duty.
“The city allocated funds for the care and feeding of the horses. However, as with any procurement, the department must comply with the Municipal Finance Management Act, which may affect the timing and availability of resources.”
When we asked if it was true there is an ongoing tender process for securing food supplies for the horses and at what stage it was currently, Dlamini said the process is in the initial stage of the tender process to secure a reliable supplier for animal feed.
“We aim to conclude this process soon to ensure a steady and adequate supply of feed for the horses in the long term. In the meantime, the department has issued a mini-tender to appoint a temporary supplier to deliver animal feed until they award the full tender.
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“The service provider was appointed, and we are awaiting the delivery of the feed.”
Dlamini added the mini-tender would help address any immediate feed shortages and maintain the well-being of the horses.
On how often these horses get examined by a veterinarian, and what was their current health status, Dlamini said a veterinarian examined them regularly to ensure they remain in good health.
Last year in April, similar allegations were brought to the newspaper’s attention. However, when Benoni SPCA inspector Thomas Mohlake visited the site for inspection, he found no welfare concerns and piles of feed in the storage room.
The City Times requested a visit to the facility to observe the conditions and care provided to the horses.
The EMPD granted this request and a follow-up report will be published after the visit.
