This week, we spoke to our Wildlife Protection Unit’s manager to discuss the latest development in the Raygun case, and the challenges faced by the team.

We joined the world in celebrating World Stray Animals Day, but exposed the sad and distressing way that Algeria deals with stray cats and dogs.

Finally, we showcased the excellent work our Special Projects Unit is doing by keeping our working companions safe.

As always, we thank you for your support! Without you, we wouldn’t be able to do the work we do.

Children from Botleng Secondary School in Delmas, Mpumalanga, allegedly killed a roaming male baboon.

On 06 February 2025, South Africa was shocked when stories started circulating on social media about the brutal killing of a roaming male Chacma baboon. Affectionately named “Raygun”, the baboon’s devastating torture, death, and mutiliation has compelled thousands of South Africans to seek justice for this unnecessary cruelty.

For almost two months, the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit has been focussing on achieving justice for Raygun. While this has been one of the most difficult cases to prosecute, evidence was compiled and a docket was submitted to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Delmas on 20 March 2025.

The NSPCA has done everything it can to ensure that those responsible for Raygun’s horrific and untimely death will face the consequences of their actions. It is now up to the justice system to do its part to achieve retribution for Raygun. We will continue to pursue this case.

We spoke with the manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit about the challenges faced during the investigation. Listen to the podcast here.

Your Voice on Social Media

• “May there be justice for Raygun ” – Facebook/Jeannie Pedersen
• “How this severe neglect can be defended is mind boggling! Well done NSPCA for continuing this fight.” – LinkedIn/Marisol Gutierrez
• “Well done SPCA!! More severe (stricter) laws should be enforced regarding animal rights.” – Facebook/Adele Faith

The NSPCA has successfully countered legal attempts by the defence to evade criminal liability in the ongoing animal cruelty case against the Vrede Integrated Farming Trust. The accused, charged under the Animals Protection Act (APA) 71 of 1962, argued that as trustees, they are only accountable to the Master of the High Court under the Trust Property Control Act. However, the NSPCA maintained that they qualify as “owners” of animals under the APA and are subject to criminal prosecution, a stance upheld by the Magistrate’s Court.

Last week, after NSPCA representations, the Free State Director of Public Prosecutions ruled that the case will proceed, striking a blow to the defence’s delay tactics. The NSPCA has fought against cruelty at the Free State farm since 2014, with the case currently under prosecution for two years. The accused seem more focussed on stalling proceedings than ensuring proper animal care. The NSPCA insists that their role in the mistreatment is a criminal offence and will not allow justice to be derailed.

On 04 April every year, the world observes World Stray Animal Day, highlighting the struggles of homeless animals. While many countries show compassion to stray animals, some still treat them as pests to be eradicated. Algeria justifies its brutal culling of stray dogs and cats by blaming rabies, resorting to cruel and outdated methods.

Stray animals are rounded up, shot, poisoned, or crammed into cages without food or water before being electrocuted. Their suffering continues as dead and dying animals are dumped into mass graves and burned, many still alive. Despite humane alternatives like vaccination and sterilisation, Algeria persists with this inhumane and outdated practice known as “galoufa.”

The NSPCA condemns such archaic cruelty and urges supporters to take action. We have written to Algeria’s president, calling for an end to “galoufa.” Join us in speaking out against this brutality and demanding ethical solutions for stray animals.

Our Farm Animal Protection Unit’s Senior Inspector van der Merwe checks the bridles of horses used for traditional horse racing.

Our Special Projects Unit (SPU) ensures the welfare of working dogs at border posts, preventing overwork and mistreatment.

Recently, Inspectors Moseki and Lebethe inspected the Nakop border, chatting with the dogs’ handlers and reinforcing the methods of humane treatment as guided by the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.

These incredible animals serve with loyalty and courage, and our Inspectors make it their mission to safeguard them every step of the way.

That’s it for this week’s Week in Review! If these stories resonated with you, check out the full articles and join the conversation on our social media pages.

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Your support helps us continue making a difference for animals – whether by sharing our updates, raising awareness, or donating to our cause. See you next Sunday for another Week in Review!