Ficksburg, Free State – A 75-year-old man has been arrested in Ficksburg, Free State, on charges of bestiality and contravention of the Animal Protection Act, following a disturbing discovery by his wife. The incident has left residents of the small Free State town reeling in shock and disbelief.
Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli of the Ficksburg police confirmed the arrest, stating that authorities were alerted to the alleged crime by an animal care group operating in the area. The group contacted the police after rescuing a dog believed to have been sexually abused by its owner.
According to Sergeant Kareli, the suspect, who owns a 12-year-old Jack Russel and two other dogs, was allegedly caught in the act by his wife. "The wife arrived home from the local clinic when she found the madala having sex with a dog," Sergeant Kareli explained.
The unsettling scene prompted immediate action. The investigating team swiftly seized all three dogs and transported them to a local veterinarian for a thorough examination. The case is now under investigation by the Ficksburg Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, who are working to uncover the full extent of the alleged abuse.
The arrest, which took place on Wednesday, 26 February, has ignited a firestorm of outrage and disbelief within the Ficksburg community. Residents have expressed their shock and disgust at the allegations, struggling to comprehend how such an act could occur within their close-knit society.
Community leader Sellwane Lephoi voiced the collective sentiment of the town, stating that the incident was deeply embarrassing. "This is the end of the world," he declared. "We believe the madala has been raping the dog for a long time. We applaud his wife who took the matter to the police." Lephoi's statement reflects a widespread suspicion among residents that the alleged abuse may have been ongoing for an extended period.
The Free State SPCA has yet to release an official statement regarding the case. Their silence has only amplified the community's anxiety and desire for answers, as residents grapple with the disturbing implications of the allegations.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, is expected to appear in the Ficksburg Magistrates Court on Monday, 3 March. The court appearance will mark the beginning of what is expected to be a highly sensitive and closely watched legal process.
