The RSPCA released a statement to confirm Zouma’s cats were in their care
The RSPCA have confirmed that the two cats owned by Kurt Zouma are in their care as police begin their investigation into an online video which showed the footballer mistreating them.
Footage obtained from The Sun on Monday showed the West Ham United defender kicking and slapping his pet cat. The 27-year-old has since apologised, while the club have also condemned his actions.
On Wednesday, West Ham confirmed that Zouma had been fined the “maximum amount” and ordered to donate the money to animal charities. As per The Times, it is estimated to be around £250,000 – which is around two weeks’ wages.
BREAKING: West Ham confirmed Kurt Zouma fined "the maximum amount possible" and the money donated to animal charities. That is two weeks' wages – understood to be £250,000
— Martyn Ziegler (@martynziegler) February 9, 2022
Surrey Police also confirmed on Tuesday that they would be launching an enquiry – the same day the Metropolitan Police said they would not be investigating.
Supporters were surprised to see Zouma named in West Ham’s starting XI for their game against Watford on Tuesday night, with Manager David Moyes justifying his place in the side by saying he made a ‘footballing decision’.
As the enquiry begins, the RSPCA have confirmed that they will look after the cats while the investigation gets underway.
Update on viral footage of cats
We'd like to reassure people that we're investigating and the cats are safe and in our care. We have been dealing with this since before the clip went viral online and we need to follow the proper legal process and not discuss due to UK GDPR laws. pic.twitter.com/LticInSmpn— RSPCA (England & Wales) (@RSPCA_official) February 9, 2022
A statement said:Â “The two cats are now in RSPCA care. Our priority is and has always been the wellbeing of these cats.
“They’ve been taken for a check-up at a vets and then will remain in our care while the investigation continues.
“We’re grateful to everyone who expressed their concern for these cats. We were dealing with this issue before the video went viral online and are leading the investigation.
“We continue to investigate so we cannot comment further at this time.”
A petition demanding action be taken against the Frenchman has received in the region of 150,000 signatures.
Zouma could also face prosecution in his native country as laws in France enable French citizens to be prosecuted if they commit crimes abroad.
Related links:
- Chris Kirkland tries to ‘clear up’ racism comparison to Zouma cat video
- West Ham sponsor to evaluate relationship with club after Kurt Zouma video
- Kurt Zouma could face four years in prison in France for attacking pet cat
