The South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating the negligence case after a brutal attack on a 10-year-old girl in the Northern Cape province.
According to SABC, young girl Reatlegile Pitsoemang lost her eyes and applied a fractured skull during the attack.
Police also urged the public not to spread graphic images of victims on social media.
“Galeshewe SAPS is investigating cases of negligence or failure to prevent animals from causing harm to dog owners,” the police said in a statement on Friday, April 4, 2025.
The police also stressed that Article 42, Article 1 (1) of the Animal Affairs Amendment, 1993, “provides that any person who causes harm to an animal by a person by a person shall commit a crime and be guilty of conviction or fine or imprisonment.
“The children were allegedly playing on Phutane Street in Galeshewe on Tuesday, April 2, 2025 at around 6 p.m. when the alleged 10-year-old female victim was attacked by a bulldog,” he said.
“The victim’s head and face were seriously injured and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.”
The day after the attack, the SPCA removed the dog from the owner’s property
“Victims and their parents or guardians may also claim civil damage for injuries, trauma, medical expenses, and future medical expenses.”
Police urge anyone with information to contact Detective Galeshewe or call the SAPS Crime Stop Number.
