Investigator hired after baboon killings

IN JUST OVER a week, two baboons have been shot and killed in Simon's Town by unknown persons, leading the Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation (CPCC) to engage a private investigator to assist in finding the perpetrators.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

The first incident took place on April 5 in Palace Hill Road, where well-loved baboon, dubbed “Blondie”, was found dead with a wound believed to have been made by a bullet from a firearm.

On April 13, in Dolphin Way, Simon's Kloof, another baboon was found fatally shot.

Lynda Silk, chairperson of CPCC, a non-profit organisation, said they have enlisted the assistance of a private investigator.

“CPCC is deeply saddened and disturbed by the recent deaths of two adult male baboons in Simon's Town,” she said.

“It is extremely disturbing that in an elite suburb, residents might hold themselves above the law and take the life of a baboon.

“It is illegal to discharge a firearm or air gun in a built-up area, and it is a criminal offence to hunt or harm baboons.

“Despite this, there is growing public frustration at the apparent lack of accountability in cases of deliberate baboon killings.