Cape Town animal welfare organisations have hailed the conviction and sentencing of a 38-year-old Mozambican citizen, found guilty on four charges related to animal cruelty, as a victory for animals.
In February this year, Gustigu Mthini brutally attacked a protected Spotted Eagle Owl with a stick on the Sea Point Promenade in full view of onlookers.
The owl later succumbed to its injuries, with a post-mortem confirming multiple fractures throughout its body.
The act of cruelty was captured on video and sparked public outrage, leading to an investigation by Jaco Pieterse, Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Chief Inspector.
After evading arrest for several days, Mthini was tracked down by Pieterse and Sea Point City Improvement District (CID), and arrested on Saturday 22 February.
He remained in custody from the date of his arrest until the conclusion of his trial, serving a total of seven months behind bars before sentencing.
In September, Mthini was found guilty on four charges:
• Count 1 (Animals Protection Act): R2,000 fine or two months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years
• Count 2 (Nature Conservation Ordinance): R3,000 fine or three months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years
• Count 3 (Nature Conservation Ordinance): R3,000 fine or three months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years
• Count 5 (Immigration Act): R2,000 fine or two months’ imprisonment, of which R1,000 or one month is suspended for five years
The court also ordered that he be deported to Mozambique upon completion of his one-month imprisonment sentence.
Pieterse said animal cruelty has no place in society.
“We serve and protect. We all have a moral and legal duty to protect our wild animals and report acts of cruelty wherever they occur. This outcome sends a strong message that those who harm animals will be held accountable.”
Pieterse also expressed his gratitude to Sea Point CID for their “unwavering assistance” throughout the investigation and arrest.
Dr Ashley Naidoo, chief executive officer for CapeNature, welcomed the conviction and said it sends a “strong message” that the illegal and cruel treatment of wildlife will not be tolerated.
“CapeNature remains committed to working closely with our partners to ensure that perpetrators of such offences are held accountable. Every animal has a role to play in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems.”
