In a tragic incident that highlights the ongoing problem of crime in Newcastle, a local family’s dogs have passed away after a brutal attack by unknown criminals. The incident occurred during the early hours of Friday morning, June 9, 2023, on Boundary Road in Lennoxton.
Sunitha, the resident of the home who wishes to remain anonymous for safety reasons, described the horrifying ordeal that unfolded around 3 am.
“Our dogs began barking a lot, and my husband and I went to investigate the cause, but we couldn’t see anything,” she said.
Shortly after returning indoors, Sunitha received a call from concerned neighbours, who noticed that the dogs were still barking incessantly. Despite another attempt to identify the source of their distress, Sunitha and her husband were unable to determine what was troubling their pets.
Tragically, the dogs eventually fell silent, leaving the family unaware of the horror they would discover upon waking. Sunitha recounted her devastating discovery: “When I got up, I went to check on the dogs, and that’s when I saw one dog lying on the ground bleeding. The other dog’s jaw was hanging loose, and he was looking at me. I screamed for my son and husband to come and help.”
Sunitha immediately contacted the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant authorities for assistance. The injured dogs were rushed to receive medical treatment, but their injuries were too severe, and both dogs ultimately succumbed to their wounds.
Overwhelmed by grief, Sunitha tearfully expressed her heartbreak and trauma, emphasising the bond she shared with her beloved pets, who had been a part of the family for 12 to 13 years.
During the incident, while law enforcement was being called and assistance was sought for the dogs, Sunitha discovered that someone had attempted to break into her son’s car. It became apparent that her dogs had bravely chased away the intruders, but tragically paid the ultimate price for their loyalty and determination to protect their family.
In an effort to prevent similar tragedies from befalling other families, Sunitha is urging residents to remain extra vigilant regarding the immediate surroundings of their homes.
Imran Ghafoor, a member of the Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team, acknowledged the incident and called on residents to immediately contact law enforcement in such situations. “People need to call the police radio room at 034 314 6158 and report the incident immediately,” said Ghafoor. He also emphasised the presence of local crime fighters and security companies, available around the clock, to respond to such emergencies.
Ghafoor stressed the importance of prompt reporting to law enforcement, as it can lead to the apprehension or deterrence of criminals before they cause harm to individuals or animals.
Additionally, Ghafoor urged residents to join Neighbour Watch Groups and maintain contact details for all members, fostering a united community effort to combat crime.
As Sunitha and her family grapple with the shock of their beloved dogs’ tragic fate and in light of Imran Ghafoor’s call for immediate reporting, it is evident that stronger community awareness and action are necessary to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
Share your thoughts and views on this heartbreaking event in the comment section below.
Comments 2
May the barbaric person who did this to an innocent animal, die a painful death. Problem in our country is the criminals have more rights than the victims.
All this due to the government and their human rights, bring back the harsh punishments from way back.
Only way crime will be curbed, rapists, murderers should get the death penalty.
Thieves should have their hands cut off, no one should pity for these kind of people!!!!
My heart goes out to the family and their animals it’s heartbreaking but please keep your animals inside at night as they protect us we need to protect them