RSPCA WA is appealing for CCTV or dashcam footage after receiving multiple reports of the suspected deliberate harming of kangaroos in Warrenup, near Albany.
The investigation began after concerns were first reported to RSPCA WA in June and it remains ongoing.
Since then, inspectors have received further reports of deceased adult kangaroos and orphaned joeys in the Warrenup area, including Menegola Drive and Wiltshire Crescent.
RSPCA WA Inspector Shaye Barrow said investigators were particularly interested in obtaining CCTV or dashcam footage from the Warrenup area, particularly in relation to incidents reported on 22 June, 7 July, the weekend of 18–19 July and 22 July.
“We are asking anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam vision from the Warrenup area, particularly around Menegola Drive, Wiltshire Crescent and nearby roads and parkland, to please come forward,” Inspector Barrow said.
“Even footage that may seem insignificant could provide important information to help establish what has occurred.”
“It is extremely distressing to receive reports of healthy adult kangaroos allegedly being deliberately targeted, leaving joeys orphaned, suffering severe injuries, or also deceased. If these allegations are substantiated, they represent a serious animal welfare concern.”
Anyone who witnessed suspicious driving behaviour, or who has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that may assist, is urged to contact RSPCA WA’s Cruelty Hotline via rspcawa.org.au or on 1300 278 358, quoting job number 225412.
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2002, it is an offence to be cruel to an animal. The maximum penalty for a cruelty conviction is a $50,000 fine and five years’ imprisonment.
