More than a million chickens are said to have died after being subjected to neglect by Daybreak Farms. The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has laid criminal charges against the Daybreak Farms board of directors following a large-scale animal welfare disaster at its operations.
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NSPCA spokesperson Jacques Peacock said more than a million chickens died after being subjected to neglect by the company. This comes after the High Court in Johannesburg confirmed its interim order against Daybreak Farms on 23 May 2025 compelling it to cease inhumane culling, ensure proper nutrition for all animals, and halt chick placements until the NSPCA was satisfied that the birds can be properly cared for. Peacock said investigations uncovered overwhelming evidence of gross negligence. “These failures were not only inhumane but criminal in nature, prompting the NSPCA to take legal action. We will now work closely with the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority to pursue justice on behalf of the animals that suffered,” he said.
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Senior inspector Nazareth Appalsamy said the birds were left in excruciating pain. “The law compels us to value every single animal individually,” Appalsamy said. “To witness the suffering of one animal multiplied by a million is not just a disaster – it’s a grave and morally reprehensible failure.” Southern African Agricultural Initiative CEO Francois Rossouw this was gross neglect. “Over a million birds left to suffer is not only a moral outrage but a glaring indictment of corporate failure,” he said. “We commend the NSPCA for taking firm legal steps and urge the agricultural sector, particularly those in leadership, to reflect deeply on the responsibilities that come with stewardship of life.”
Bongi Sikelo 