The animal cruelty case against social media influencer Tshiamo "Sasha-Lee" Kgasago and Elliot Tshigo, the previous owner of a malnourished dog named Bobby, will continue after Kgasago's attorneys failed to have the charges against her dropped. The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) announced on September 17 that the charges against Kgasago would proceed. Kgasago and Tshigo are expected to return to the Boksburg Magistrates' Court on November 13.
The case began in June 2025 when Kgasago posted a social media video of herself dancing, with a severely malnourished dog, later named Bobby, visible in the background. The video sparked widespread concern, and hundreds of reports were made to the NSPCA. The organization's Special Projects Unit tracked down Bobby, finding her to be suffering from fly strike, covered in ticks and fleas, and having resorted to eating plastic to survive.
The NSPCA removed Bobby from the property and placed her in the care of the Nigel SPCA, before transferring her to the Boksburg SPCA, where she received veterinary care. Over time, Bobby's condition improved significantly, and she was eventually adopted into a new home. The NSPCA had pushed for Kgasago to be charged under the Animals Protection Act, arguing that she had failed to seek assistance for Bobby despite the dog's visibly emaciated condition.
When the matter first appeared in the Boksburg Magistrate's Court on March 25, 2026, it was Tshigo who was initially accused. He later appeared in court on April 28, indicating his intention to plead not guilty to the animal cruelty charges. On June 18, the State added Kgasago as a second accused. Neither accused has been convicted, and the allegations against them remain before the court.
In September, the NSPCA reported that Kgasago's legal representatives had sought to have the charges against her withdrawn, but this attempt was unsuccessful. The NSPCA continues its legal fight for Bobby, pushing for accountability under the Animals Protection Act in the ongoing Boksburg Magistrate's Court trial.
The NSPCA has been actively involved in the case, working to ensure that those responsible for Bobby's condition are held accountable. The organization's efforts have led to significant improvements in Bobby's life, and her recovery serves as a testament to the importance of animal welfare.
The case is set to continue on November 13, with both Kgasago and Tshigo expected to appear in court. The NSPCA remains committed to seeking justice for Bobby and ensuring that animal cruelty is addressed in South Africa.
Key points
- Attempts to drop animal cruelty charges against social media influencer Tshiamo "Sasha-Lee" Kgasago have failed.
- The case will continue in the Boksburg Magistrates' Court, with Kgasago and Elliot Tshigo expected to appear on November 13.
- The NSPCA continues to push for accountability under the Animals Protection Act in the ongoing trial.
