Dog poisoning spate hits Melmoth
The community is adamant that the dog killing is linked to an upsurge in bakkie thefts in the region.
CONCERNED Melmoth residents met with the Eyethu Zululand to highlight the ongoing problem of dog poisoning in the area.
Over the last one-and-a-half months, 16 dogs have been treated for ‘Temik’ poisoning.
Temik is the trade name of the poison ‘aldicarb’, also known as Two-step and is deadly to animals.
A while back, vervet monkeys were found to have been poisoned in the eShowe area with aldicarb.
Of the reported 16 dogs, five died of the poisoning in Melmoth, while the others were treated quickly enough and were saved.
The community is adamant that the dog killing is linked to an upsurge in bakkie thefts in the region.
At least seven vehicles, which included 4x4s, double-cab and single-cab bakkies.
On two occasions vehicles were broken into, but the thieves were unable to move them.
All vehicles have proven to be fair game, and it is believed all are destined for Mozambique.
Aldicarb is banned in South Africa and may no longer be used. Previously, farmers were allowed to use it under strict conditions.
According to the source, hawkers are openly selling the product in the streets of Melmoth.
The police were unable to confirm the recent arrests of two persons in connection with the sale of the poison.
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Police response
Police spokesperson Captain Tienkie van Vuuren says the Melmoth Station Commander Lt Col Robert Souls is aware of the poisoning in the area and has consulted with SAPS Legal Services to obtain the necessary advice on the poisonous substance.
The prosecution relating to poisoning is not a common one and, to have a successful conviction, the correct protocol needs to be followed.
SAPS members are not experts on the subject and have not been trained to identify poison substances and could not act.
Regarding the individual selling on the street, investigations are continuing and when the guidelines and protocols have been obtained, he will be dealt with.
Captain Van Vuuren says SAPS Melmoth have begun night patrols with the Crime Intelligence Unit.
‘It appears that the better half of the Melmoth community and municipality are aware of the poison threat and anyone is welcome to come forward with information and share it with the Station Commander Lt Col Souls.’
He can be contacted on 082 5674154, or Melmoth SAPS 035 4502002.
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