Dear Editor,
In January, 2022, a video that went viral was made of horse cart operator, Jabar Khan, whipping a sick and visibly injured horse in Martyr’s Ville, E.C.D. On the morning of the incident, veterinarian Dr. Meghoo of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), and his veterinary technician were working in the area and witnessed the incident. They asked Khan to remove the horse from the horse cart and started to treat the injured horse. Regrettably, the horse eventually succumbed to its injuries despite the efforts of Dr. Wilson who had continued to treat the animal.
That afternoon, Guyana Society for the Prevention for Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) Inspector, Jersid Wright, and animal welfare activist, Syeada Manbodh, went to Beterverwagting Police Station and made a report. They also showed the video to the Station Sergeant Camacho who immediately sent several officers to apprehend Khan who was arrested and held for 72 hours before being released on bail. Khan was later charged with cruelty to animals. In September, 2022, Magistrate Aisha George heard evidence given by the GSPCA Inspector Wright, Syeada Manbodh and veterinarians Dr. Meghoo and Dr. Wilson. Magistrate George found Khan guilty as charged.
Khan was required to pay a fine of $80,075 or spend 8 months in jail. Editor, this case represents a major victory for animal welfare in Guyana and sends a message that cruelty to animals is illegal, immoral and will not be tolerated. In closing, the GSPCA would like to thank the person who made the video as well as Commander Pareshram of the Guyana Police Force for his guidance and crucial support in relation to animal cruelty matters, and Sergeant Camacho and the officers of Beterverwagting Police Station. The Society also extends gratitude to Dr. Wilson and Dr. Meghoo. Lastly, GSPCA thanks Syeada Manbodh for her vital support in this matter.
Sincerely,
Oliver Insanally,
Honorary President
Executive Committee of the GSPCA
