Target: Advocate Nicolette Bell, Director of Public Prosecutions, Western Cape, South Africa
Goal: Secure the maximum jail time, fines, and a lifelong animal-ownership ban for suspects who reportedly drove an injured pony in a dangerous getaway.
A wildlife rescue officer with the Cape of Good Hope SPCA reportedly stopped a makeshift cart after noticing a struggling pony harnessed to heavy vehicle scrap. Photographs and eyewitness accounts seemingly indicate the animal’s skin was raw and bleeding where an ill-fitting harness had rubbed deep wounds into its side. When the officer began documenting the evidence, three men allegedly leapt onto the cart, whipped the pony, and bolted into traffic—sparking a hazardous chase through busy streets and an informal settlement.
Law-enforcement teams eventually apprehended one suspect; two others are still at large. The trio purportedly tried to hide the pony in a remote stable to keep authorities from seizing the injured animal. According to the SPCA, the rescued pony is now receiving urgent veterinary treatment. Under South Africa’s Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, forcing an unfit animal to work and obstructing an inspector each carry penalties of up to R40,000 or 12 months’ imprisonment, yet these sentences are rarely imposed to the fullest extent.
Robust prosecution is vital to show that exploiting exhausted working animals and endangering the public will not be tolerated. A strong legal response—including imprisonment, heavy fines, and a permanent prohibition on owning or using draught animals—will deter future cruelty and affirm that living beings are not disposable tools.
PETITION LETTER:
County Director Bell,
A Cape of Good Hope SPCA officer reportedly found a pony bleeding from deep harness wounds while pulling a scrap‐laden cart. When the officer attempted to document the injuries, three individuals allegedly whipped the pony and fled, guiding the animal at speed through traffic and later concealing it in a settlement. One suspect was arrested; two remain unidentified.
The pony is now safe, but evidence suggests prolonged suffering and deliberate attempts to obstruct an official investigation. South Africa’s Animals Protection Act provides for up to 12 months in jail and substantial fines for forcing an injured animal to work and for hindering inspectors. These sanctions exist to prevent exactly this type of cruelty and public endangerment.
We respectfully ask your office to pursue the harshest penalties applicable, request restitution for the pony’s medical care, and seek a lifetime ban on animal ownership or use for all involved. An uncompromising prosecution will reinforce the law, protect other working animals, and remind the community that such abuse carries serious consequences.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Jim Linwood
