Call for public help after RSPCA WA receives reports of suspected deliberate harming and killing of kangaroos

WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGES

RSPCA WA is continuing investigations into suspected deliberate harming and killing of kangaroos near Albany, as graphic photos emerged.

In a release on Thursday, RSPCA WA called for any dash-cam or CCTV footage after receiving multiple reports of suspected abuse of kangaroos in Warrenup.

Concerns regarding the kangaroos were reported in June and since then inspectors have received further reports of dead adult kangaroos and orphaned joeys in that area, particularly along Menegola Drive and Wiltshire Crescent.

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2002, it is an offence to be cruel to an animal and the maximum penalty for a cruelty conviction is a $50,000 fine and five years imprisonment.

RSPCA WA inspector Shaye Barrow said investigators were particularly interested in obtaining footage from the Warrenup area, particularly in relation to incidents reported on June 22, July 7, the weekend of July 18-19 and July 22.

“We are asking anyone who may have CCTV or dash-cam vision from the Warrenup area, particularly around Menegola Drive, Wiltshire Crescent and nearby roads and parkland, to please come forward,” she said.

“Even footage that may seem insignificant could provide important information to help establish what has occurred.

“It is extremely distressing to receive reports of healthy adult kangaroos allegedly being deliberately targeted, leaving joeys orphaned, suffering severe injuries or also deceased.

“If these allegations are substantiated, they represent a serious animal welfare concern.”

Anyone who has witnessed suspicious driving behaviour or who has CCTV, dash-cam footage or any other information that may assist, is urged to contact RSPCA WA’s cruelty hotline at rspcawa.org.au or call 1300 278 358, quoting job number 225 412.