The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has issued a R20,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible for the brutal killing of a male Chacma baboon, affectionately known as “Raygun,” in Mpumalanga.

The baboon was reportedly chased at Botleng Secondary School in Delmas, beaten, and set alight. His body was later mutilated, with his hands, feet, head, and heart removed.

The attack was allegedly captured on video, and the NSPCA has urged those who filmed the incident to come forward.

“Videos circulating online went viral on Friday. Despite this, the school management refuses to identify those responsible. Our discussions with them revealed that the case is deeply linked to superstitions about baboons and witchcraft,” the NSPCA stated.

The organisation said its investigation is being obstructed by some community members.

“We are horrified by this level of cruelty. Raygun was merely seeking new territory, as all baboons instinctively do,” said Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, Manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit.

To prevent similar acts of animal cruelty, the NSPCA plans to launch an educational campaign for both children and adults about animal sentience, legal protections, and appropriate responses to wildlife in urban areas.

“Our goal is to broadcast this information via television and radio, but such efforts come at a significant cost. No animal should ever endure such suffering.”

Anyone with information can contact the NSPCA anonymously at wild3@nspca.co.za or call 011 907 3590.