Donkey poaching is said to be on the increase in parts of South Africa, with Asian interests again being blamed.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) estimates that more than 100 donkeys have been stolen and cruelly killed in the last three months in North West and Northern Cape provinces. Their skins are said to be in high demand in Asia for alleged medical purposes.

The animal rights society says Chinese men were found in possession of donkey skins after 43 of the animals disappeared in the Brits area of North West Province recently.

SPCA Inspector Grace de Lange says they society will hold an urgent meeting with the North West provincial government soon to address the latest poaching scourge.

She says: “Donkeys are being stolen in the North West and the Northern Cape. The manner in which they are being transported is not acceptable and the manner in which they are being slaughtered is cruel. What is concerning us is the manner in which they are being slaughtered, we will lay charges under the Animal Protection Act.”

Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK