A pig was allegedly assaulted by a group of unidentified men on Eastbury Drive in Phoenix, north of Durban, on Saturday, 9 May 2026.
The incident was reported to emergency responders at approximately 17:28 after members of the public raised concerns about suspected animal cruelty in the area. Reaction officers responding to the complaint arrived at the scene and found the injured pig lying next to the roadway. The suspects had already fled before authorities arrived.
According to information gathered at the scene, residents alleged that approximately five men were seen attacking the animal. Witnesses claimed the group repeatedly assaulted the pig for reasons that remain unclear.
Community members further alleged that the individuals involved are believed to reside at a nearby scrap yard in the area. No arrests had been confirmed at the time of reporting.
Video footage and photographs reportedly captured by a passerby allegedly show several men surrounding the animal during the incident. In the footage, one individual can allegedly be seen restraining the pig while others repeatedly beat it.
A representative from a wildlife organisation who attended the scene confirmed that arrangements had been made by the pig’s owner to transport the animal to a veterinarian for medical treatment. The extent of the pig’s injuries has not been officially disclosed.
The incident has raised concern among residents in Phoenix, with calls for those responsible to be identified and held accountable. Authorities have not yet released information regarding a criminal case or investigation linked to the alleged animal abuse.
Animal cruelty is a criminal offence in South Africa under the Animals Protection Act, which prohibits the abuse, torture or unnecessary suffering of animals.
The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation.
