Butterworth Tops accused of animal cruelty

Animal cruelty charges have been laid against a Tops at Spar liquor shop in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, after a sheep was allegedly tied up and displayed as a prize.

"The photographs show a live sheep with its legs tied together on the floor of the [Tops at Spar] bottle store without freedom of movement or access to water," the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) said on Thursday (12/06/2014).

This allegedly happened at Spar's Fuller Street branch of Tops in May.

"A notice had been placed on the side of the animal stating that if customers purchase a bottle of two specific alcoholic drinks, they stand a chance of winning the animal," NSPCA inspector Andries Venter said in a statement.

The NSPCA had contacted Spar managers but were informed the matter was investigated and action was taken.

It was unclear what steps Spar had taken.

"The NSPCA... followed its mandate to investigate and take appropriate action in cases of abuse, neglect or cruelty to animals," said Venter.

"Criminal charges have been laid in terms of the Animals Protection Act and... the Performing Animals Protection Act as the animal was exhibited."

Spar's marketing manager could not be reached for comment on Thursday. - Sapa