Baboon killed and mutilated over belief learners had fallen prey to witchcraft
The NSPCA is a offering R20,000 reward for the brutal killing of male baboon called 'Raygun'
Chacma baboon - Wikimedia Commons/Charles J. Sharp
Clarence Ford is joined by NSPCA spokesperson Jacques Peacock.
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The NSPCA is offering a R20,000 reward for information leading to a successful conviction of those involved in the killing of a male Chacma baboon in Delmas, Mpumalanga.
The animal, affectionately known as 'Raygun', was chased at Botleng Secondary School, beaten, and set alight.
His body was later mutilated.
"[The background is] he found himself in Pretoria suburbs and he was gently coaxed and encouraged to move away from the built-up areas. Unfortunately, he then found himself at Botleng Secondary School."
Jacques Peacock, NSPCA spokesperson
"As far as we understand it, he was walking along the roof of the school and the school learners noticed him, and I assume they were afraid."
Jacques Peacock, NSPCA spokesperson
Graphic and disturbing videos of the killing were circulating online on Friday, but the SPCA says Despite the footage, the school management refuses to identify those responsible.
It's urging those who filmed the attack to come forward.
"What's shocked the country at large is the violence and cruelty inflicted on this innocent animal."
Jacques Peacock, NSPCA spokesperson
"As far as we can see from the video, it looks like these were school children...but we do see adults in the video...who are making no effort to intervene."
Jacques Peacock, NSPCA spokesperson
Peacock says they believe the incident may be connected to superstitions regarding baboons used in witchcraft.
"People from the community, we've heard they felt threatened by the presence of the baboon...his presence was then attributed to...someone putting a curse on children at the school at this is why they reacted in such a way."
Jacques Peacock, NSPCA spokesperson
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact the NSPCA at wild3@nspca.co.za or call 011 907 3590. All tip-offs will remain anonymous.