THE National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has issued a R20 000 reward for information leading to a successful conviction of the individuals behind the brutal killing of a male Chacma baboon, affectionately known as “Raygun,” in Mpumalanga.
The baboon was seen chased at Botleng Secondary School in Delmas, beaten, and set alight. Raygun’s body was later mutilated, with his hands, feet, head and heart cut from his body.
The incident was apparently captured on video and the NSPCA has now appealed to those who filmed the attack to come forward.
“Videos circulating online went viral on Friday. Despite the footage, the school management refuses to identify those responsible. After consulting with the school management, who are responsible for the approximately 1,800 children on the property, it became clear that this case is deeply rooted in superstition regarding baboons used in witchcraft.”
The organisation said its efforts in fully investigating the incident were being hampered by community members.
“We are horrified by this level of cruelty. Raygun was in search of freedom, in a new territory - something all baboons do instinctively,” said Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, Manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit.
The NSPCA said it will embark on a large-scale programme to educate children and adults alike about the sentience of animals, their protection under the law, and what to do when wildlife is encountered in built-up areas.
“Our goal is to have this reach television and radio, although this comes at a tremendous cost. No animal should ever endure such suffering and agony”.
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation can anonymously contact the NSPCA at wild3@nspca.co.za or call 011 907 3590.