Vhanyai arrested for torturing a crocodile in Duthuni
A self-proclaimed “King of Crocodiles” also known as Vhanyai was arrested on Thursday, 13 February after the circulation of a video of him torturing a Nile crocodile at Duthuni Village, Limpopo.
An investigation was launched after a widely circulated video showed Vhanyai repeatedly kicking and beating the crocodile before striking it multiple times in the mouth with a slasher.
ALSO READ: MEC express dissatisfaction with Marapong Residential Units delay
Community members from the village appeared to enjoy the behaviour, cheering the man on and stating that it should be killed.
Upon investigation by the National Council of SPCAs, it was revealed that the man responsible had added to the crocodile’s pain and suffering by hacking at the animal’s teeth while it was still alive. Following weeks of dedicated efforts, National Inspector White, with the invaluable assistance of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Louis Trichardt SPCA, arrested the suspect today under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
“Upon being alerted to the video, the NSPCA immediately launched an investigation. After gathering substantial evidence, the team successfully located and identified the suspect in Duthuni, a village near Thohoyandou in Limpopo,” said the NSPCA.
THE NSPCA HAVE ARRESTED THE SELF-PROCLAIMED KING OF CROCODILES VHANYAI
“The NSPCA extends its sincere gratitude to the Thohoyandou Police Station and the Louis Trichardt SPCA for their invaluable support in bringing this individual to justice.
“This arrest is a significant step in holding animal abusers accountable, particularly those who commit such heinous acts for social media notoriety. The NSPCA remains committed to ensuring that justice is served,” they said.
The suspect is in custody and will appear in the Thohoyandou magistrate’s court on 17 February 2025. Vhanyai faces charges under sections 2(1)(a), (f), (q), (r), and 2(2) of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 for animal cruelty, as well as additional charges under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004.
