Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Police chairperson Ian Cameron has called on SAPS to release its internal investigation report into the injuries and death of service dog Sky, saying repeated extensions have left his office without a firm date for when the report will be submitted.
Cameron said his office had accommodated several requests for additional time and that SAPS had remained in communication, including explaining delays linked to election-related deployments through November 6.
However, he said the internal report had still not been received and no firm revised submission date had been provided.
“We have been patient and accommodating because this investigation must be thorough. But the continued uncertainty is becoming increasingly frustrating,” Cameron said.
“We need the report, a clear account of what remains outstanding and confirmation of what action has been taken.”
Questions remain over disciplinary action
Cameron’s office has prepared a further formal request seeking the report, its management approval status and details of interim measures aimed at protecting animals at the Roodeplaat facility.
According to Cameron, no confirmation has yet been received of precautionary suspensions, disciplinary proceedings or criminal referrals arising from SAPS’s internal investigation.
He stressed that this should not be interpreted as evidence that no action had been taken and said SAPS had been asked to clarify the position.
“Suspension is not automatic, and no finding should be predetermined. But SAPS must explain whether precautionary measures have been considered, what decisions have been taken and how any continuing welfare risks are being managed.”
Sky, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois and former SAPS arson detection dog, was euthanised in September after being found severely injured inside her kennel at the SAPS Veterinary Hospital in Roodeplaat, Pretoria.
Her post-mortem later revealed catastrophic injuries to both front legs, extensive muscle damage and evidence of prolonged distress.
The National Council of SPCAs confirmed on October 29 that it had laid criminal charges relating to Sky at Kameeldrift SAPS under the existing case number. The action followed an initial complaint submitted by Cameron.
Separate investigations are under way
The criminal investigation, together with separate processes involving the NSPCA, Independent Police Investigative Directorate and South African Veterinary Council, remain distinct from SAPS’s own internal investigation.
Cameron said the lack of a clear outcome risked undermining confidence that the matter would reach a substantive conclusion.
“The absence of clear outcomes risks creating the impression that this matter will not reach a meaningful conclusion. SAPS can address that concern through substantive reporting and demonstrable progress,” he said.
“Sky’s death must lead to a proper determination of responsibility and practical changes that protect the animals still in SAPS care.”