After numerous reports on allegations of Municipal lifeguards who tried to drown two dogs at Battery Beach on Wednesday, 22 January 2014, the Municipality instituted an investigation in order to get to the bottom of the matter. Several eye witness accounts were received and the findings of the investigation is as follows:
On Wednesday, 22 January 2014, two lifeguards based at the Durban Battery Beach reported for duty at 05:45am, for their usual 06:00am shift. The lifeguards noticed approximately 10 people already bathing and about three people exercising on the shore. As per their routine beach safety preparation, they began placing bathing beacons to indicate the boundaries within which bathers could swim. While placing the beacons, they noticed two dogs that were left unattended, with one of them being leashed to the beacon. They approached the group that was training to enquire if they knew who the owner of the dog was. They made several other attempts to ascertain the owner of the dogs, including making an announcement on the public announcement system, however no-one came forward.
They then called Law Enforcement and after some discussion decided to take the dogs to the nearest SPCA. As they were preparing to leave with the dogs, a lady who had been training approached them and accused them of being abusive towards the dogs, demanding that the dogs be released immediately. Her high tone attracted the attention of the other bathers and that was when the owner of the dogs came forward.
The owner was fined R300 for having dogs in a prohibited area and R250 for not having a leash around one of the dogs. As per the Municipal by-laws, pets are not permitted to be on the seashore and there are signs indicating. In public places, dogs should always be leashed and under supervision for the safety of other patrons.
The Municipality is satisfied with the findings of the investigation and therefore will not be taking any action against the lifeguards concerned. However, residents are encouraged to come forward should they have additional information that is of relevance to the case and would be prepared to give evidence. The Municipality would be willing to revisit the case if necessary.
The Municipality would like to appeal to all citizens and bathers to adhere to the by-laws of the City to ensure that they are able to enjoy our facilities in a safe and hassle-free manner. The Municipality is committed to being one of the world-class tourist destinations and encourages everyone to co-operate with our law enforcement, as the regulations put in place are there to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all citizens.
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