Target: Jan Scheepers, Provincial Commissioner of Police, Limpopo, South Africa
Goal: Pursue disciplinary action following a captain’s conviction in a case involving goats allegedly beaten until one suffered an exposed fracture.
One young goat’s leg bone reportedly protruded through its skin. Both animals were apparently so badly beaten that they could not lift their heads. An NSPCA inspector euthanized them to end their suffering. These reported details make the demand for professional accountability urgent, even after criminal proceedings have concluded.
The NSPCA’s July 2026 account identifies one person who served as both a police captain and a pastor. It reports a guilty plea, conviction, and R4,000 fine. The organization has referred the matter to provincial police leadership.
A criminal fine does not answer whether a serving officer remains fit for public duties. Police leadership should assess the conviction under applicable employment and disciplinary rules, with a fair opportunity for the officer to respond. Demand prompt disciplinary proceedings, appropriate sanctions up to dismissal where warranted, and a clear explanation of the outcome.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Commissioner Scheepers,
Your office has an opportunity to demonstrate that professional standards carry consequences. A serving captain was convicted after pleading guilty in a case involving two young goats reportedly beaten severely enough to require euthanasia. The reported exposed fracture is a stark reason to examine the officer’s fitness for continued service.
Please obtain the court record and the NSPCA referral, determine the officer’s current employment status, and initiate or complete the appropriate disciplinary process. Assess the established conviction and relevant evidence under service rules. Respect procedural rights and assess any additional allegations separately. Document the reasons for the disciplinary decision.
We request proportionate disciplinary sanctions, including dismissal if justified by the findings and applicable rules. Explain the outcome publicly to the extent the law permits, together with any measures needed to reinforce animal cruelty enforcement within the service. The criminal sentence should not be mistaken for completion of every institutional responsibility. Please ensure this matter receives a timely, independent disciplinary determination that reflects the seriousness of the reported suffering and the standards expected of police officers.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: ILRI
