Heidi Knight of Bitou Community Veterinary Clinic questions the morality of the actions of those involved in dog-fighting.

KNYSNA  NEWS - Suspects charged with participating in illegal dog-fighting activities, were confronted by angry animal lovers and animal rights activists when they made their first court appearance on Thursday, May 19 at the Plettenberg Bay Magistrates’ Court.

A crowd of people, many of whom took their beloved canines along, gathered outside the court from around 08:30, carrying placards and eagerly anticipating the appearance of the accused.

The atmosphere outside the court was tense and some activists seemed aggressive. Police held the suspects inside the charge office until shortly before their court appearance.

A group of activists stormed the charge office in order to take photographs of the accused. One woman was overheard saying that the activists should make their presence felt.

The accused had to pass through the angry crowd in order to reach the courtroom. The SAPS’ Captain Louw asked those assembled to refrain from swearing at or abusing the accused.

The courtroom was filled to capacity with many activists unable to witness the proceedings due to space constraints.
The case was postponed until July 15 pending further investigation. The bail period of the accused was extended. All suspects remain out on bail of R1 500 each.

Eight of the accused appeared before Magistrate Len Goosen. Defence attorney John Gillespie informed Goosen that the other two suspects arrested with the group were unable to attend court.

It was ruled that the men would each temporarily forfeit their R1 500 bail until their next court appearance on July 15.
There has been speculation amongst the public that the matter will be referred to the Organised Crime Unit. This could not be confirmed at the time of going to press.