One of the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) Special Investigations Unit priority animal crimes is the sexual abuse of animals (bestiality). Not only does this crime represent terrible animal cruelty, but cases of sexual abuse of an animal indicate towards a criminal who is a risk to both animals and vulnerable human individuals in the community, especially children.
When the Mareetsane Police Station in the North West Province received a report of suspected bestiality; their prompt and direct contact of the NSPCA ensured immediate action. The Special Investigations Unit could not only guide the investigation that followed, but also dispatch a National Inspector to rescue the victim and properly handle the scene evidence and oversee the sample collection. This resulted in the arrest of the perpetrator, his bail being denied and the docket being completed swiftly and timeously for his first appearance in Itsoseng court on Thursday, 28 May 2020.
The victim of the assault was a young female cross breed dog who we have named Liquorice. Liquorice is still recovering from the trauma of her ordeal but is currently under veterinary care with us in Johannesburg and has already won many hearts with her sweet and loving nature.
Bestiality is rarely a standalone sexual crime. The link between the sexual abuse of animals and human cruelty is real and important and the NSPCA encourages communities to give this sexual crime a voice.
The successful action of these difficult cases and apprehension of the perpetrators relies on the South African Police Services (SAPS) and the SPCA working swiftly and efficiently together. Our thanks are extended to Sergeant Tlale of the Mareetsane Police Station for his prompt action, and Dr. Jacobs of the North West University Animal Hospital for his willingness to take this journey with us.
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