Update
PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Following several recent sightings in and around Plettenberg Bay of a man known for allegedly swindling people out of money by using stolen dogs, authorities have issued a warning about how to approach alleged tricksters like him.
The man, who cannot be named as he has not yet been charged with any animal-related crimes, has been seen around the town of late dragging or carrying around pets which allegedly do not belong to him.
Just over a week ago authorities confiscated a mixed breed dog from him after residents reported the man dragging the dog around town.
Plettenberg Bay Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) inspector Tracy van der Byl said the suspect’s modus operandi varies.
She said at times he would try and sell puppies to visitors for cash, but other times he would use dogs to beg.
“The money or food sadly never goes towards feeding the animals,” Van der Byl said.
She added that with the festive season approaching, she believed the man’s activities would increase.
“Many locals know about him and what he does, so they often don’t fall for his ruse, but unsuspecting visitors might.”
She said their hands are tied when it comes to dealing with the suspect. “We can’t do much if the owners of the dogs don’t come forward and lay a criminal complaint against the person.
"And in the case of animal abuse, you have to witness it and be able to prove it.”
When someone sells pets on the streets, authorities have more room to act as it is illegal to sell animals without the necessary registration as a breeder.
Van der Byl cautioned residents and visitors not to approach the suspect as he was known to become aggressive when confronted.
Anyone who is aware of illegal breeding and selling of puppies or animal abuse, can contact Bitou law enforcement on 044 533 5000/044 501 3262/3238 and PAWS on 083 287 9917.
Van der Byl said the dog that was recently confiscated from him is in good condition and currently at PAWS.
“We are trying to find the owner of the dog.
"Unfortunately the owners can’t always be located and then we have to try and rehome the dogs, which adds pressure on our already stretched resources.”
On Monday 27 November the suspect was seen by residents near the Shell garage in Plett, carrying a white bird by the tips of its wings.
“We followed up, but could not find him and don’t know where the bird came from,” Van der Byl said.
Read a previous article: Beware of pet snatcher in Plett
ARTICLE: YOLANDÉ STANDER, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD CORRESPONDENT
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