Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Police chairperson Ian Cameron has called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to release its internal investigation report into the death of police dog Sky. The report has been pending for some time, with Cameron's office accommodating several requests for additional time. Despite SAPS remaining in communication and explaining delays linked to election-related deployments, the report has still not been received. Cameron expressed frustration with the continued uncertainty, saying his office needs the report to ensure a thorough investigation.
Police dog Sky, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois and former SAPS arson detection dog, was euthanised in September after being found severely injured inside her kennel at the SAPS Veterinary Hospital in Roodeplaat, Pretoria. Her post-mortem revealed catastrophic injuries to both front legs, extensive muscle damage, and evidence of prolonged distress. The National Council of SPCAs confirmed on October 29 that it had laid criminal charges relating to Sky at Kameeldrift SAPS under the existing case number, following an initial complaint submitted by Cameron.
Cameron's office has prepared a further formal request seeking the report, its management approval status, and details of interim measures aimed at protecting animals at the Roodeplaat facility. The request also seeks confirmation of precautionary suspensions, disciplinary proceedings, or criminal referrals arising from SAPS's internal investigation. Cameron stressed that the lack of clear outcomes risks undermining confidence that the matter will reach a substantive conclusion.
Separate investigations are underway, including a criminal investigation, processes involving the NSPCA, Independent Police Investigative Directorate, and South African Veterinary Council. These investigations are distinct from SAPS's own internal investigation. Cameron emphasised that Sky's death must lead to a proper determination of responsibility and practical changes that protect the animals still in SAPS care.
The internal report's delay has raised questions about disciplinary action taken against those responsible for Sky's death. Cameron's office has asked SAPS to clarify the position, as no confirmation has been received of precautionary suspensions, disciplinary proceedings, or criminal referrals. SAPS has been asked to explain whether precautionary measures have been considered, what decisions have been taken, and how any continuing welfare risks are being managed.
The Portfolio Committee on Police chairperson expressed concern that the absence of clear outcomes risks creating the impression that this matter will not reach a meaningful conclusion. He urged SAPS to address this concern through substantive reporting and demonstrable progress. Cameron reiterated that his office has been patient and accommodating, but the continued uncertainty is becoming increasingly frustrating.
The South African Police Service has been given another opportunity to provide the internal report and clarify the position on disciplinary action. It remains to be seen how SAPS will respond to the formal request and whether the report will be submitted soon. The outcome will likely have implications for the ongoing investigations and the welfare of animals in SAPS care.
Key points
- SAPS urged to release internal report on police dog Sky's death
- Separate investigations underway into Sky's death
- Lack of clear outcomes risks undermining confidence in investigation
