The Kloof and Highway SPCA has been the target of yet another arson attack.
|||Durban - The Kloof and Highway SPCA has been the target of yet another arson attack.
Bewildered staff at the shelter were still recovering from a fire last month, in which thousands of books and donated goods sold at the SPCA’s charity shop were destroyed.
Tuesday’s blaze, which was sparked by an explosive substance pushed through an opening, ravaged a shipping container in which vital supplies needed to run the shelter were stored.
“We can confirm that it was definitely an arson attack and we appeal to anyone with information on who’s behind this, to step forward,” said shelter manager Barbara Patrick.
“No animals were harmed, but all the items that we use on a daily basis were destroyed. Our medical equipment that we use in our sterilisation clinics is gone, so are our cleaning supplies, cat traps, furniture and display boards.”
The shelter, which relies on donations to function, will now have to fork out about R40 000 to R50 000 to replace the items lost in the fire.
In addition, more funding has had to be allocated to improving security at the property.
“We’ve been forced to be extra vigilant until the culprit is found. The money that could be used towards animal welfare is now being used for our increased security costs.”
A grateful Patrick said she was overwhelmed by the public support during the previous fire, and hoped animal lovers would once again come to the shelter’s aid.
“The community was amazing, absolutely incredible. We urge them to continue supporting us financially and emotionally by donating any unwanted items that could help to fund the SPCA.”
The motive for the malicious attack remains unknown. However, the list of possible offenders for both incidents has been narrowed down to two former employees, said private investigator Brad Nathanson.
“We have two suspects in mind - one black, one white. One is more prominent than the other and I am 98 percent sure its him.
“It’s ironic that one of the guys who is a former SPCA employee called Miss Patrick asking for money, and the fire began after his request was denied,” Nathanson said.
The other, who was dismissed, has reportedly disappeared without trace from his Eshongweni home.
“The public need to watch the Facebook page, where I will post pictures of the two men tomorrow, and hopefully they can help us,” Nathanson said.
Police spokesman Colonel Vincent Mdunge has confirmed that another arson case has been opened and although no arrests had been made, the investigation would continue.
Daily News