Cops question suspect in dog shooting

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Published Oct 20, 2014

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Cape Town - A man suspected of shooting dead a family pet in Durbanville is being questioned by police after they searched his property and found an air rifle.

 

The man allegedly handed himself over to police and confessed after a search warrant was obtained. The dog, Zack, was shot and killed on its owner’s property last month.

At the time its owner, Raqual van Wyk, said Zack was running around, chasing pigeons, “barking at the kids” and “being a normal dog” when the incident occurred.

He was shot through the garden gate.

Animal lovers later posted a reward of R500 for any information leading to identification of the culprit.

Van Wyk opened a case of malicious damage to property and for discharging a firearm in a public space.

“To get closure we want him to be held responsible,” she said.

Police spokesman Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that “a property was searched and an air rifle found.”

 

“This office does not want to elaborate further on this matter. Investigation is still ongoing.”

Cape of Good Hope SPCA chief executive Allan Perrins said the alleged culprit’s own dog could be confiscated pending the outcome of the investigation.

“We have been informed that he owns a dog. We are seriously considering admitting his dog into our care pending the outcome of the court case, (and) seeking to declare him an unfit dog owner.”

They would request consideration of permanent deprivation of the privilege of pet ownership if the suspect was found guilty, “which ought to be a mere formality given his admission”.

“We will be assisting the SAPS by putting together the animal cruelty docket and they will focus on the charges related to the Firearms Act.”

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Cape Argus

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