An undercover operation is planned to catch the animal hawker at the Malibongwe bridge in Dunoon who is well known for selling animals in the area.
It is being speculated that the perpetrator, whose name is unknown, has been selling animals (mainly dogs) at busy intersections in the Dunoon area and has been on the run from authorities and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA for quite some time.
The SPCA says they are aware of the animal hawker and have been to the site daily, more than once a day, for the past week.
“As soon as the suspect sees an SPCA or law enforcement vehicle, he runs away and into Dunoon. We are busy planning an undercover operation with the relevant authorities to arrest the suspect and charge him,” the SPCA says.
Social media outrage
A motorist posted on social media a few months ago about the animal hawker at the Malibongwe bridge in Dunoon who wanted to sell a puppy to him.
Another motorist says she reported him last Friday.
“I agree that an undercover operation will be the only way. He was so arrogant and laughed at me in my face and even did a little dance before he ran off as I started taking photos of him. He is well aware of what he is doing. So he definitely needs to pay a price,” she says.
Another social media post reads: “Please go into Dunoon. Cheryl Lynn’s Rescue Organisation can’t cope with all the abused animals there.
“There are pregnant dogs running over the main road at night looking for food. All those dogs need neutering, sterilisation, parasite control, and many need to be confiscated. Backyard breeding needs to be completely banned, not just on paper.
“Government removed dog licensing. Laws need to change asap.”
The SPCA responded to this post saying that they visit Dunoon daily and collect animals for sterilisation from the area.
“We also investigate animal cruelty cases in the area as well. Sadly we all have limitations when it comes to manpower and resources. We cover the entire City of Cape Town and Stellenbosch area with only a few inspectors and mobile clinics. We do our best under the circumstances,” the SPCA says.
Animals Protection Act
According to the SPCA, it is an offence for any person to sell or offer to sell an animal without the City’s authorisation in a street or public place.
Charges of animal cruelty in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 are also being investigated by the SPCA.
“We are appealing to the public to please refrain from purchasing any animal from this suspect and rather call the SPCA instead,” the SPCA says.
“By feeling sorry and purchasing animals from him, you are encouraging him to sell more animals.”
- If the man is sighted or you are willing to provide the SPCA with an affidavit whereby this man tried to sell an animal to you, or you witnessed him being cruel to an animal, send an email to inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za or contact their 24/7 Inspectorate Call Centre on 021 700 4158/9.
“This matter is very serious, and we will ensure justice is served.”
