On Sunday, 1st June 2025, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA was contacted by the Lansdowne South African Police Service (SAPS) following a horrific incident of animal cruelty. It was reported that a resident of the area had strangled his neighbour’s cat to death — a deeply distressing and violent act that has shocked the community.
According to information received, this is not the first such incident allegedly involving the suspect. It is believed that as many as five cats have been killed in the area under similar circumstances, raising serious concerns about the safety of animals in the neighbourhood.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA immediately dispatched Inspector Trevor Rodney, who met with officers at the Lansdowne SAPS before proceeding to the property in question. There, Inspector Rodney discovered the lifeless body of the family’s beloved cat. The animal’s body had been discarded in a dustbin after the brutal act. Despite the trauma of the scene, Inspector Rodney persisted in collecting evidence to support a criminal prosecution.
The suspect was not present at the time of inspection and was initially at large. A criminal case of animal cruelty was officially opened, and the remains of the cat were taken by the SPCA for a post-mortem examination to support the case.
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Later that evening, thanks to the swift and commendable efforts of the Lansdowne SAPS, the suspect was apprehended and placed under arrest. He is expected to appear in the Wynberg Magistrates Court tomorrow, where the Cape of Good Hope SPCA will be in attendance to oppose bail.
“We will not tolerate acts of cruelty toward animals,” said SPCA Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse. “No animal should ever have to suffer such violence. We are committed to pursuing justice for this cat and for every voiceless victim of cruelty.”
The SPCA will continue to monitor the case closely and will push for the maximum penalty available under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
If you suspect animal cruelty, please report it immediately to our 24/7 Inspectorate on 021 700 4158.
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