Katlego Sekhu
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has announced its intention to lay criminal charges against an individual featured in a recent viral video pouring an alcoholic beverage into the mouth of a common carp.
According to the NSPCA, the individual, identified as “Lethabo_Sebapo” on TikTok, has been located and contacted, with the compilation of a criminal docket nearing completion.
The video shows the person holding the fish in one hand while pouring alcohol into its mouth, laughing and appearing amused throughout the act.
The individual has admitted to the incident, claiming it was done for “fun.” He now faces charges under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, specifically sections 2(1)(a), (n), (q), and (r).
The NSPCA has expressed growing concern over the increase in videos depicting animal cruelty on social media platforms like TikTok.
“A significant portion of our inspectors’ time and resources is now dedicated to tracking and investigating the origins of such content,” they stated.
The organisation praised the public’s widespread condemnation of this recent act, highlighting that it reflects the empathy many South Africans feel for animals, including fish, whose sentience and capacity for suffering are often overlooked.
The NSPCA hopes the prosecution will act as a strong deterrent, discouraging the creation and distribution of content promoting animal cruelty as entertainment.
The Siz The World team explored different cultural perspectives on how animals are regarded and treated. They invited listeners to share their thoughts on whether the TikToker’s consequences are too harsh or if the punishment is justified.
