elderly man killed by crocodiles

The NSPCA opened a case against a farm owner and employees after they allegedly killed crocodiles. Images: Facebook/NSPCA.

GRAPHIC: Crocodiles viciously hacked with pangas at a farm

The NSPCA says a crocodile farm owner in Limpopo allegedly instructed his employees to attack the animals with pangas.

elderly man killed by crocodiles

The NSPCA opened a case against a farm owner and employees after they allegedly killed crocodiles. Images: Facebook/NSPCA.

The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) says it is determined to win a case against an owner and employees of a crocodile farm in Limpopo who allegedly hacked the animals with pangas.

In 2021, the NSPCA reportedly received reports of severe animal cruelty occurring at the farm and wasted no time sending a team of inspectors to investigate.

CROCODILES ALLEGEDLY HACKED WITH PANGAS

The NSPCA said upon investigation; its inspectors were horrified to have found carcasses of juvenile crocodiles that were viciously hacked with pangas (bush knives), which would have resulted in a prolonged and excruciating death for each of them.

NSPCA said it also obtained video footage, and the staff can be seen hacking the animals indiscriminately- without any regard for the immense suffering they were causing.

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“When questioned, they claimed they were following instructions from the owner of the crocodiles and the farm, and that the crocodiles were being destroyed because the owner no longer needed them for farming,” the animal welfare organisation said.

CASE OF ANIMAL CRUELTY TO BE HEARD IN LIMPOPO

The animal welfare organisation laid criminal charges of animal cruelty in terms of the Animals Protection Act no 71 of 1962, the same year. The case was reportedly set to be heard at the Gravelotte Magistrate Court on 23 March 2023. However, due to one of the accused requesting legal representation, the case has been postponed to 22 June 2023.

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crocodiles NSPCA Limpopo
Robert Irwin recently had a worrying encounter with one of Australia Zoo’s saltwater crocodiles, Casper. Image via Twitter @RobertIrwin

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NSPCA said it is important to remember that all animals, including crocodiles, are sentient beings that deserve protection from abuse and cruelty. Just because they are not traditionally viewed in the same manner as other furry companions, it does not mean they are not worth fighting for.

“The NSPCA will continue its important work to ensure that all animals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”

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