Three men were convicted after a working horse named Willamina collapsed and later died from severe injuries caused by being forced to pull an overloaded scrap cart weighing 880kg, with three adult men riding on top. The horse was found repeatedly collapsing and in poor condition, with a veterinary report confirming the load far exceeded her physical capabilities. The owner and two assistants were charged under animal protection laws and received suspended sentences, with the case highlighting the cruelty faced by working horses in Cape Town’s scrap collection industry.

The SPCA emphasized that such abuse is part of a troubling trend where horses are treated as disposable tools rather than living beings, often rented cheaply and returned injured. The conviction serves as a warning that animal abuse will be prosecuted, and the organization urges the public to report any signs of mistreatment. The case underscores the vital role of inspectors and veterinarians in protecting working animals and preventing further suffering.