A suspected deliberate act of animal cruelty has prompted an outraged response from the South Australian premier after three kangaroos were found dead east of Adelaide.
Two adult kangaroos, a subadult and a joey flung from its pouch were found dead on a dirt road, some with tyre tracks on their bodies, in Meadow in Adelaide Hills.
The kangaroos were found near a dirt road in Meadow, Adelaide Hills. Supplied
Locals believe the native animals were chased before being mowed down by a car.
SA Police said it was aware of the incident but that it had not opened any investigation.
Public and political pressure is mounting for police action.
Premier Peter Malinauskas described the act as “unconscionable” and a clear example of animal abuse.
One joey survived the horrific ordeal after being flung from its mother’s pouch. Supplied
“Who gets off on this? These people deserve to get caught and punished severely,” Malinauskas said.
“We’ve got the legislation there to protect animals from this type of cruelty, and I hope the police investigate it and find the perpetrators.”
Kangaroo Sanctuary Project’s Linda White said it made her sick to think the alleged perpetrators may get away with killing animals.
Locals believe the roos were chased, before being mowed down by a car. Supplied
“There are people who will take this as a free pass,” she said.
“It doesn’t matter, no one is going to look into it.”
Police referred 9News to the RSPCA or Department of Environment and Water for a possible investigation into the incident.
A joey that lost its mother in the incident but survived is said to be doing well.