A man is facing charges of animal cruelty after allegedly filming himself abusing a rat and sharing the footage on social media.
The video reportedly shows the rodent trapped inside a cage while the suspect subjects it to acts of abuse. The disturbing content prompted an investigation by the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA).
According to the NSPCA, investigators were able to trace the suspect to a town outside Klerksdorp in the North West. He was subsequently arrested and charged under the Animal Protection Act before being released on bail.
The NSPCA has condemned the incident and appealed to the public not to circulate material depicting animal abuse.
“Members of the public are urged not to share content depicting animal abuse, as this can further normalise and amplify harm,” the organisation said.
The case is expected to proceed through the courts in due course.