The NSPCA investigated the case of a Kwa Zulu Natal government official and his bodyguards for the unnecessary and cruel shooting of a dog in the Melmoth area on 25 November 2017. Charges were laid by the NSPCA against Deputy Mayor Phumlani Ntombela and his bodyguards, Bongani Shabalala and Halalisani Biyela, and the matter has finally been heard in court.
Video footage of the incident surfaced on social media, bringing it to the attention of the NSPCA and Eshowe SPCA 5 days after the dog was shot. The Eshowe SPCA Inspector attended to the complaint as soon as he was made aware of the situation and found the dog still alive with multiple gunshot wounds. 5 days had lapsed and not a single person sought help for this animal, allowing it to suffer for a prolonged period of time.
The video depicts a dog that is tied to a pole being repeatedly shot. A sentient being that was not posing any risk at the time, who was unable to escape this absolutely horrific and excruciating ordeal while bystanders just watch while he screams in agony. The men then just walk away, leaving the dog tied to the pole, completely unconcerned that he was still alive and still suffering. Showing absolutely no guilt for what they had just done.
A National Inspector from the NSPCA has appeared in court twice already and testified against the accused on 12 February 2019. The case has been postponed to 25 February 2019, where judgment is expected to be handed down.
Travelling to this area on numerous occasions has cost the NSPCA a great deal of time and resources over the last year, but the NSPCA simply could not just let this case go. Justice needs to be served and a strong message be sent – no one is above the law and animals need to be treated with the greatest compassion.
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