The male Chacma baboon, known as “Raygun”, being chased on a school roof. Picture: NSPCA
The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals(NSPCA) is offering a R20 000 reward for information following the brutal killing of a male Chacma baboon known as “Raygun”.
In a video that has since been circulated on social media, the baboon is seen being chased, beaten and then set alight at a secondary school in Delmas, Mpumlanga.
His body was also mutilated, with his hands, feet, head and heart cut from his body.
The NSPCA, in a statement, said they were offering the reward for information leading to a successful conviction of those who were involved in his killing.
They also urged those who filmed the attack to come forward.
The NSPCA said despite the footage, the school management refused to identify those responsible.
“After consulting with the school management, who are responsible for the approximately 1 800 children on the property, it became clear that this case is deeply rooted in superstition regarding baboons used in witchcraft.
“The school principal who on her own version went to move her motor vehicle from the chaos and ran back into the school building is refusing to provide the names of the three learners who were seen chasing Raygun on the school’s roof. According to the school, ten children fainted earlier that morning, leading to the belief that the baboon was sent to cast a spell.
“The NSPCA was informed that the community, who allegedly initiated the chase after Raygun, requested the school to notify them if any authority attempted to investigate at the school about Raygun’s death. The community are protecting each other at all costs, making our investigation incredibly difficult.”
Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit said they were horrified by the level of cruelty.
“Raygun was in search of freedom, in a new territory - something all baboons do instinctively. No animal should ever endure such suffering and agony”.
Anyone with information can contact the NSPCA at wild3@nspca.co.za or call 011 907 3590. All tip-offs will remain anonymous.
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