What began as a routine animal welfare inspection quickly turned violent when an SPCA Inspector was punched in the face while rescuing four suffering dogs from horrific neglect in Longlands, Strand.
On 15 October 2025, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA received a report about a “brown Pitbull” suffering from a severe skin condition. When Inspector Lwazi Ntungele arrived at the property, he was met with aggression, denial, and obstruction from the occupant. Despite his calm and professional approach, the owner refused entry, insisting that neighbours were “targeting” her.
From outside the property, Inspector Ntungele could see enough to know the animals were suffering – two puppies with severe skin conditions and an adult dog scratching incessantly in visible distress. The owner claimed the animals had seen a vet “three weeks ago,” but could produce no proof. She became increasingly hostile, shouting at the inspector to “shut up,” and refused to allow an inspection.
With clear evidence of suffering and refusal of lawful access, Inspector Ntungele applied for a warrant in terms of Section 8 of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. The warrant was granted by the Strand Magistrate’s Court the next day.
Warrant Executed – Violence Erupts
On 16 October 2025, Inspector Ntungele returned to the property with members of the Strand SAPS to enforce the warrant and rescue the dogs. But what awaited them was violence and defiance instead of cooperation.
From the moment of arrival, the owner was verbally aggressive and uncooperative. When her husband arrived, the situation escalated. As Inspector Ntungele attempted to remove the dogs, the husband attempted to stop him and punched him in the face, attempting to block the rescue. SAPS officers immediately intervened, but the man resisted arrest, forcing officers to call for urgent back-up.
In the chaos, the wife also attacked the inspector, punching him in the face. Both suspects were arrested and taken to the Strand Police Station, where they were formally charged.
Charges Laid
Both suspects now face criminal charges for:
- Animal cruelty
- Obstruction of an authorised SPCA Inspector (Section 8(4) of the Animals Protection Act)
- Assault
Despite the physical attack, Inspector Ntungele remained steadfast in his duty – ensuring that all four dogs were safely removed from the property.
Veterinary Findings: “Prolonged and Preventable Suffering”
A veterinary examination confirmed the SPCA’s worst fears. Two of the dogs were found to be in extreme pain, suffering from advanced demodectic mange – a condition that causes intense itching, inflammation, open sores, and hair loss across the body.
The attending veterinarian reported:
“Both dogs presented with severe mange infestations resulting in painful and extensive inflammation and hair loss across large areas of their bodies… The degree of skin damage is consistent with a prolonged and untreated infestation…”
The vet concluded that both animals had endured prolonged, preventable cruelty, stating that failure to seek veterinary care had caused the progression of a manageable condition into one of chronic suffering. Due to the irreversible skin damage and ongoing pain, humane euthanasia was the only option to prevent further suffering.
Standing Strong Against Cruelty
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA strongly condemns all acts of cruelty – both against animals and against those who fight to protect them. Despite being assaulted in the line of duty, Inspector Ntungele ensured that no animal was left behind. He has since received medical attention and is recovering well.
“This case is a shocking reminder of the violence and resistance our inspectors often face while simply trying to protect the voiceless, but our inspectors will not be intimidated. We will continue to fight - for every single animal that suffers in silence.”
Justice for the Innocent
The SPCA thanks the Strand SAPS for their swift and courageous response under extremely volatile conditions. We will pursue justice for both the animals and the assaulted officer.
Two dogs will now receive the peace they were denied in life – free from the pain and suffering inflicted upon them. The other two rescued dogs remain in SPCA care, receiving the medical attention, comfort, and kindness they have long deserved.
If you suspect animal cruelty, report it immediately.
Call the SPCA’s 24-hour Inspectorate Control Room at (021) 700 4158 / 083 326 1604.
Help us end the cycle of neglect, violence, and abuse.
