Warning: This statement includes a graphic description of fatal injuries

Humane Society International is offering a reward of up to R5,000.00 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons involved in an act of alleged bestiality (sex with an animal) in Struisbaai North, Western Cape.

The Case: Local authorities believe the perpetrator/s committed the act on or around 2 or 3 August, 2017. The person or people involved in the crime had tied the dog to a tree from his neck, presumably to restrain him during the act. The dog was left hanging on the tree, and he succumbed to his injuries. Under the instruction of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League, local authorities removed the animal’s body and documented evidence. The Struisbaai SAPS has opened a cruelty case and this brutal crime is now under active investigation.

Animal Cruelty: Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and the community in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the public. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault. The rape of a dog by humans is a particularly heinous example of cruelty to animals and law enforcement must aggressively investigate and prosecute such a crime.  

Audrey Delsink, HSI/Africa executive director, said: “We ask people with any kind of information about this case to please come forward. This horrific act of animal cruelty must not go unpunished. It is important to catch the individual or individuals responsible for this crime before this behaviour escalates to more crimes involving animals and people.” 

People with information on the case should contact the Struisbaai South African Police Service at (028) 435 7367, using Reference Number CAS 19/8/2017. Sergeant FP Gabriels is leading the investigation.

Media contact: Raúl Arce-Contreras, rcontreras@humanesociety.org, +1-301-721-6440