On 4 February 2026 at approximately 10:00am, our Inspector Gavin Ntsoane, was hijacked at gunpoint near Rand Airport while travelling to Lambton Veterinary Clinic in Germiston to collect abandoned animals.
Gavin was forcibly placed in the back of the bakkie while the perpetrators drove off. He was later transferred to a second vehicle and held hostage whilst being taunted and threatened at gunpoint for several hours.
At approximately 15:00pm, Gavin was released on the side of the road near the Gosforth Plaza tollgate, where a kind member of the public assisted him with a phone so he could contact our office. Our Chief Inspector immediately went to fetch him.
Our vehicle tracking company responded swiftly, and the vehicle was recovered shortly thereafter, although it had been stripped and all organisational branding removed.
Gavin was immediately taken to hospital where he received medical assessment and support following the incident. While we are grateful that he is safe, the emotional impact of such an experience is profound and recovery takes time.
Although our Ford Ranger Bakkie and the cellphone are both covered by our insurance, this incident is a stark reminder of the very real dangers our Inspectors, drivers, and the educator face daily while serving animals and their communities. Our team often work in unpredictable environments, responding to cruelty cases, rescues, and welfare emergencies — and our teams safety remains a constant concern.
We urge the community to stay alert, report suspicious activity, and understand the risks faced by animal welfare workers on the ground.
Gavin, we stand with you and are supporting you every step of the way.
