19 Jul 2017

Francistown police are investigating a case in which a 24-year-old male has been charged with cruelty to animals.

In an interview, Station commander, Superintendent Lebalang Maniki stated that an ongoing investigation has revealed that over 500 donkeys were found at Bochang Abattoirs on the outskirts of Francistown, which indicated that they had been neglected.

Supt Maniki further noted that the accused is currently facing one charge of animal cruelty, adding that the investigation would reveal whether more crimes were committed.

He further explained that the investigation would also determine if the case proceeds to court or not.

Supt Maniki stated that cases of this nature were not common in Botswana, but clarified that Batswana should be informed that cruelty to animals was an offense punishable by the law, adding that beating of animals, not feeding them or denying them water contributed to the offence.

He advised Batswana who reared animals to care for them appropriately lest they find themselves facing charges of this sort.

Supt Maniki also confirmed that they were investigating another case in which a 60-year -old man was found lying dead besides a road in monarch area.

He further added that foul play was suspected as it was evident that the deceased had sustained injuries.

He further appealed to members of the community to come forth with any information pertaining to the case. BOPA