Illegal Dog Hunting: A Growing Concern for Farmers

Free State Agriculture’s Rural Safety Committee has taken serious note of the increasing incidents of illegal dog hunting, especially in areas of the Free State such as the Goudveld region. Large groups of people and dogs are unlawfully entering farms and hunting without permission, causing major problems for farmers.

In 2023, a document was compiled and distributed outlining the range of offences associated with this activity. These offences may include:

• Unlawful trespassing
• Intentional damage to property
• Violations of the Fencing Act
• Breaches of the Stock Theft Act and Game Theft Act
• Contraventions of the Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance, which clearly prohibits hunting with dogs

Importantly: no municipal official or even a landowner may legally give permission for hunting with dogs unless he or she is in possession of a valid permit issued by DESTEA for bird hunting on their property.

When large groups and dogs appear on farms or smallholdings, the landowner is often left to deal with the situation alone. It is essential to call on neighbours or trusted individuals for support to:

• Capture photos and video footage of the incident
• Contact the local SAPS immediately

If this type of crime occurs repeatedly in an area, it should be recorded by rural safety representatives at monthly meetings with the police. The police can then be requested to give the issue special attention. In cases where the problem becomes severe or persistent, the Rural Safety Plan may be activated in collaboration with the police.

Farmers facing significant problems are encouraged to report incidents to their local safety representative. Training sessions involving farming communities and the police can also be arranged where necessary.