Kurt Zouma’s video of animal abuse goes viral, RSPCA condemns and demands prosecution
The Football world has not been lacking controversy in any sense recently and here comes another one to be added to the list. This time it is West Ham United defender Kurt Zouma who was in danger to be prosecuted for a video of animal abuse that has gone viral.
In the video published by The Sun, originally shared on Snapchat by Kurt Zouma’s brother, Yoan, the France international can be seen picking up the family pet before kicking it across the kitchen floor. It is believed that the video must have been filmed the incident inside the defender’s home before posting it to Snapchat on Sunday afternoon, just a day after West Ham’s FA Cup fourth-round win at Kidderminster.
The French international then chases the animal around his dining room in front of a child as the cameraman laughs. Zouma also hurls a pair of designer shoes at the pet — which frantically tries to escape. In a final clip, he is seen forcefully slapping the cat in the face — and out of the child’s arms.
Kurt Zouma apologises, Club condemns the incident
West Ham United defender Kurt Zouma did issue an apology after a video emerged on Monday of him kicking and slapping a cat.
He said: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
“I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video. I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.
“They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again.”
A West Ham statement said: “West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated.
“We have spoken to Kurt and will be dealing with the matter internally, but we would like to make it clear that we in no way condone cruelty towards animals.”
Animal welfare charity the RSPCA condemned Kurt Zouma’s actions and reiterated the importance of reporting suspected animal suffering.
“This is a very upsetting video. It’s never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise,” an RSPCA spokesperson said.
“We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare.”
However, according to Sky Sports, the Met Police have decided they will not be investigating the incident despite widespread appeals from disturbed football fans.
Sandipan Roy
(207 Articles Published)