Target: Andy Mothibi, National Director of Public Prosecutions, South Africa
Goal: Review available legal remedies after a case involving a dog allegedly thrown into water with a neck weight ended without conviction.
Siyabonga survived. A boat operator pulled the dog from an estuary after he was allegedly kicked and thrown from a bridge with a weight tied around his neck. That rescue is the hopeful part of an account that deserves careful public attention: an animal allegedly placed in lethal danger reached safety because someone intervened.
The NSPCA reports that a witness, the rescuer, and a veterinarian testified at trial. The accused was discharged under Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act, and the case concluded in July 2026. The organization has questioned how the evidence was presented.
Respect for the court’s decision can coexist with a demand for careful institutional review. Authorities should explain what lawful options remain and identify improvements in handling animal cruelty evidence. Ask the national prosecution leadership to review the record, pursue any legally available route to accountability, and strengthen the preparation of future cases.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear National Director Mothibi,
We ask you to examine the prosecution arising from the alleged attempt to drown Siyabonga . The reported allegation of a dog thrown into an estuary with a weight around his neck is deeply troubling. His rescue and recovery deserve recognition, and the seriousness of the allegation warrants a clear account of the legal outcome.
Please arrange a review of the trial record, including the eyewitness, rescue, and veterinary evidence. Determine whether any lawful appeal or other remedy remains available, with full regard for the discharge, applicable deadlines, and protections against repeated prosecution. The public deserves an accurate explanation of what can be done and what legal limits apply.
If a lawful remedy exists, pursue it diligently and seek proportionate punishment only through valid proceedings establishing criminal responsibility. If no further prosecution is permissible, explain that conclusion and implement any necessary improvements in evidence preparation and presentation. Please honor both animal protection and due process by ensuring this case receives a serious, transparent review.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Squirkl
