It’s been more than three years since National Senior Inspector Duan Matthee uncovered scenes of horror in a house in the small town of Winnie Mandela (previously Brandfort) in the central Free State.
At the time, Inspector Matthee was working at the Bloemfontein SPCA. Prompted by a complaint of neglect and abuse of several toy Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier dogs, he was horrified to find twelve small dogs living in deplorable conditions. Every single dog was suffering from some sort of disease or illness. Inspector Matthee’s inspection revealed several alarming health issues among the dogs, including skin conditions, severe dental problems, penile infections, and extensive infestation of external and internal parasites. Many dogs were underweight and suffering from chronic pain, with one exhibiting signs of heart failure. The animals were also found with matted fur and inadequate shelter. Left to live amongst their own filth, the dogs were in a desperate state.
Inspector Matthee confronted the owners of the dogs, Paul and Doortjie Kruger, who initially refused him entrance onto the property. Returning with a warrant, Matthee requested evidence of veterinary care for the dogs, of which the Krugers had no proof. Matthee made the decision to seize all twelve dogs. However, Doortjie Kruger further obstructed his efforts by rushing to open all the cages enclosing the dogs, hoping they would flee before they could be removed from her care.
Fortunately, Inspector Matthee managed to seize all twelve dogs and they were safely transported to the Bloemfontein SPCA. Having since moved to the NSPCA, Inspector Matthee has continued to pursue the case, as is expected. In September 2024, Matthee provided testimony in court and the case was finalised. Due to the extreme cruelty exhibited by the Krugers, as well as the fact that Doortjie Kruger had previously been charged with animal cruelty in 2016, both Doortjie and Paul were sentenced to a fine of R3,000 and six months’ direct imprisonment.
Direct imprisonment for animal cruelty is increasingly rare in South Africa and we are incredibly proud of Inspector Matthee for pursuing this case to closure. It is yet another victory in the fight against animal cruelty!
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