Four suspects have been arrested for the brutal attack on a Cape fur seal at Monwabisi beach, Khayelitsha.

Authorities had to euthanize the seal due to the severity of the injuries sustained during the stoning.

Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews says that this is one of the most brutal attacks on wildlife in recent times. He says that members of the public must not engage with any wildlife to protect themselves, and the animals.

The public is reminded of the following:

• Do not approach or try and get close to any marine and coastal wildlife. Their natural response will be to defend themselves and this may result in aggressive behaviour
• Always keep a respectful distance between yourself and any wildlife to reduce stress on the wildlife. Move away if approached by wildlife
• Never try and touch, or pose with, any marine and coastal wildlife. This places both you and the wildlife at risk of potential harm
• Keep dogs under control by keeping them on a leash and well away from all wildlife at all times. Remove pets immediately from any place where coastal wildlife are present
• Never try and feed any marine and coastal wildlife
• Do not support the illegal feeding of wildlife for show, such as the seals at the fishing harbours. This is an illegal activity and must not be supported financially, or otherwise