NSPCA Offers R20,000 Reward for Information on Brutal Killing of Baboon Named Raygun in Delmas

The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has announced a R20,000 reward in a bid to find those responsible for the savage killing of a Chacma baboon, identified as Raygun. The brutal incident, which occurred on February 6, 2023, has triggered widespread outrage and concern across South Africa.

Raygun's ordeal began with a terrifying chase at Botleng Secondary School in Delmas, Mpumalanga. Eyewitness reports and initial investigations reveal that the baboon was not only physically assaulted but was also set on fire in a gruesome act of violence. In a distressing escalation of cruelty, parts of Raygun’s body, including his hands, feet, head, and heart, were subsequently removed, indicating a possible link to ritualistic practices or superstitions often associated with witchcraft.

Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter from the NSPCA described the attack as "horrific" and emphasized the urgency in bringing the perpetrators to justice. The NSPCA has taken custody of Raygun’s remains to conduct a thorough post-mortem to understand the full extent of the atrocities committed against him.

In response to this brutal killing, the NSPCA is committed to implementing a community education program in the Delmas area. The initiative aims to enhance the understanding of animal rights and welfare, while strenuously advocating for the end of animal cruelty linked to superstitious beliefs.

This case has highlighted the dire need for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of animal protection laws in the region. The NSPCA urges anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. This not only contributes to finding justice for Raygun but also helps deter future acts of violence against animals.

Community members are encouraged to reflect on the severity of this act and the broader implications it holds for societal norms and values concerning wildlife and their treatment. The NSPCA continues to work tirelessly to ensure that animals across the country are respected and protected against such senseless acts of cruelty.

For those who wish to provide any leads, the NSPCA has assured confidentiality and is eagerly waiting for any information that could assist in resolving this case and hopefully, bringing Raygun’s killers to justice.