A donkey has been removed from its owner after a video showing four adults riding the animal while it was being whipped circulated on social media.
The incident took place in Mamre, outside Atlantis, and prompted widespread condemnation.
The SPCA has confirmed that its investigation is continuing and further charges under the Animals Protection Act are expected.
Witness helps SPCA trace the donkey
A witness provided information about the people involved and the location of the donkey.
The Karoo Donkey Sanctuary also assisted with efforts to trace the animal.
Finding those allegedly involved and locating the donkey proved difficult, despite the footage being shared online.
Donkey moved before SPCA could remove it
The SPCA obtained a warrant allowing inspectors to enter the owner’s property and remove the donkey.
When the warrant was executed, inspectors found that the animal had been moved to another location.
The search continued with assistance from Atlantis SAPS and the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit.
Owner arrested for concealing animal
The owner was arrested for allegedly concealing the donkey from an SPCA inspector.
The family contacted the SPCA the following day and voluntarily handed over the animal.
No further information about the donkey’s condition was supplied.
Further criminal charges expected
The SPCA continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the video and treatment of the donkey.
Further criminal charges under the Animals Protection Act are expected to follow.
The identities of the people involved and details of a court appearance were not supplied.
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