The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, has condemned in the strongest terms the reported prevalence of dog-fighting within Ocean View and the Cape Flats communities. Minister Fritz has iterated that the blood sport is both criminal and cruel.
It is reported that there are an increasing number of school-aged children participating in dog fights, often stolen from residences. Where the dog does not succeed in the fight, they are reportedly stoned to death.
Minister Fritz said, “I call on Neighbourhood Watches, Community Policing Forums and entire communities to play a role in stamping out this cruel practice. This can and should be done in partnership with the SAPS and SPCA. As the Department of Community Safety, we will investigate a holistic approach to address this social ill. We will further consult with key stakeholders and academic communities as part of the safety plan to develop a long-term holistic response to this issue.”
“Dog fighting is often linked to other forms of criminal behavior such as illegal gambling, trade of illicit substances and exchanging of sexual favours. It is of great concern that young people are being drawn into dog fighting as they are seemingly being diverted into a life of criminality”, said Minister Fritz.
Minister Fritz added, “I urge residents and parents to be vigilant. If anyone has any information on these harmful practices, they can report it to the Animal Welfare Society for South Africa’s headquarters on 021 692 2626. Additionally, this can be reported to the SAPS on 08600 10111 or SMS 32211.”
Under the leadership of Minister Fritz, the Department of Community Safety remains committed to using every tool at its disposal to safeguard the residents, both human and animal, in the Western Cape.
