Delay in necropsy reports raises concerns over baboon shootings in Simon's Town

Despite two baboons being shot in Simon's Town in April, with one necropsy confirming a high-powered air rifle as the cause of death, the second necropsy report is still missing after nearly 10 weeks. 

According to the Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation (CPCC), the delay, together with no criminal case opened, is standing in the way of justice.

Last month, the CPCC expressed outrage at the Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team's Strategic Management Plan, which proposes the removal of five splinter troops, claiming that 120 baboons could be affected.

The plan cites the proposed removal of the five splinter troops (CT1, CT2, Waterfall, Seaforth and Da Gama4) due to limited natural resources, human conflict, and poor welfare, which was set for  review by experts this month.

The task team said removal options include translocation, sanctuaries, humane euthanasia, or a combination. The process and outcomes will be made public.

CPCC chairperson, Lynda Silk ,said they were shocked by the delay in the criminal response to the two baboons killed in Simon's Town.

“This lack of action on shooting of baboons by the authorities tasked with enforcing the law suggests that these authorities don’t care to stop it," she said.

“In April in Simon’s Town, two baboons were killed eight days apart as individuals held themselves above the law.

"The public wanted action and consequences to seriously deter any further such shootings.

"CPCC appointed a private investigator to support authorities in attaining successful conviction for this crime.

“A necropsy is the essential starting point of such an investigation. 

“Whilst residents of the area did have some information, which could have helped secure conviction, it is critical to confirm cause of death and details of the projectile in order to investigate. It is a criminal offence to obstruct the administration of justice.

“We cannot understand why there has not been a necropsy of the second shooting, in which a baboon was found suspected shot dead in Dolphin Way, Simon’s Town on April 13.

"A necropsy report would be the essential starting point of such an investigation.

“The lack of action on shooting of baboons by the authorities tasked with enforcing the law suggests that these authorities don’t care to stop it.”

Police have yet to respond to queries on the latest developments on the cases.

Earlier, police spokesperson, FC van Wyk, said they were aware of the cases.

“This office can confirm that a Facebook article was made by Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation.

"The dispersing male baboon in Simon's Town was allegedly shot at Palace Hill Road on 5th April 2025 at approximately 8:30am The baboon was taken for necropsy.

 “The outcome is not yet reported to Simon's Town SAPS, therefore no case of cruelty to animal was registered, since no report was made by Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation.”

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