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Central SA
Animal groups demand justice after horse carcasses found on Warrenton farm─── ZENANDE MPAME 12:22 Wed, 17 Dec 2025
Northern Cape police are investigating a case of illegal possession of an unlicensed firearm on a farm in Warrenton. The police have not linked the suspect directly to the mass slaughter of donkeys and horses uncovered on the property.
A 53-year-old man is set to reappear in the Warrenton Magistrate’s Court after allegedly shooting and killing a donkey on Thursday (11/12). The discovery came to light after inspectors from the Vaal Triangle were informed about illegal slaughter activities occurring outside their area of jurisdiction.
On a visit to a farm between Jan Kempdorp and Warrenton, senior Highveld Horse Care Unit inspector Ashley Ness and unit manager Theresa Hodgekinson found the land covered with the decaying bones of hundreds of donkey and horse carcasses.
The Meyerton-based non-profit welfare organisation conducts investigations into horse and donkey abuse and works to protect the welfare of horses and donkeys in Gauteng and neighbouring provinces.
“It is alleged that the suspect shot and killed a donkey,” said Northern Cape police spokesperson Molefi Shemane. “Police, in consultation with regional organisations fighting animal cruelty, decided to euthanise a horse due to severe injuries sustained on the farm.
“Investigations in the matter are continuing. We urge anyone with further information to contact the police. All information received will be treated confidentially.”
Police have not linked the suspect directly to the mass slaughter uncovered on the property.
Some of the horse and donkey carcasses that were found on the farm. Photo: Supplied
Animal welfare organisations call for stronger controls and law enforcement in rural areas. The Highveld Horse Care Unit also called for justice for the animals and for the full extent of the law to be applied once those responsible have been identified.
“To make matters worse, many of the animals appear to have been killed in a cruel, inhumane manner,” said Ness. “This is consistent with wounds caused by a blunt object, such as a hammer.
“There have also been illegal slaughters in the Vaal in the past, but not on this scale. We are currently preparing to expose and crack down on a local perpetrator.”
Police have urged anyone with information that can assist the police in their investigation to contact investigating officer Capt. Willem Fourie on 082 495 4739 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
