SANDF's ‘lack of interest’ in alleged abuse of horses deplored

Published Jul 23, 2019

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Cape Town – The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) said they were frustrated at what they called a “lack of progress and clear lack of interest” in two cases lodged against the SA Army Special Infantry Capability (SAASIC) Unit for alleged abuses of horses.

The NSPCA had lodged complaints against the unit for starvation and neglect of horses during May last year.

NSPCA spokesperson Meg Wilson said the cases were made for the “gross negligence and deliberate brutality to horses”.

“Both cases have made no progress in spite of many follow-ups from the NSPCA. After failing to get hold of the detectives in Potchefstroom on a number of occasions, a senior inspector from the NSPCA travelled to Potchefstroom to follow up in person, only to realise that both the dockets were missing,” said Wilson.

The NSPCA had said they were appalled at the SANDF’s alleged inability to care for horses in their custody.

More than 30 SANDF horses have had to be put down as a result of ill-treatment since April last year.

SANDF spokesperson Brigadier-General Mafi Mgobozi did not respond to the Cape Times on Monday.

“Misinformation relating to these dockets was given by the SAPS, stating that both dockets had been delivered to court and it was later established that this was not the case.

‘‘The detectives confirmed they had attempted to get statements from the accused on a number of occasions but were met with scornful refusal and hindrance into the investigation.

‘‘The officer commanding the

SAASIC Unit allegedly told police that neither he nor any SAASIC members would provide statements,” said

Wilson.

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