It comes as Kurt Zouma was fined the “maximum amount possible” by his club – understood by Sky News to be two weeks’ wages worth £250,000 – for the video, but was still allowed to play for West Ham on Tuesday night.
Kurt Zouma’s brother Yoan has been suspended by Dagenham & Redbridge for his role in filming a horrific video of his sibling kicking a cat.
In the footage, Kurt, the West Ham defender, was filmed kicking his pet cat with laughter heard ringing in the background.
In a statement, the club said:
“Dagenham & Redbridge FC would again like to reiterate that it condemns any form of cruelty towards animals and fully understands the reaction of many of its supporters.
The Club has therefore decided that until the RSPCA has completed its investigations, Yoan will not play for Dagenham & Redbridge in any competitive match. “They added that “any further action deemed necessary to be taken will be made at the conclusion of the RSPCA investigation. Both cats have now been taken into the care of the RSPCA and Kurt Zouma has been fined the “maximum amount possible” by West Ham – understood by Sky News to be two weeks’ wages worth £250,000.
The animal welfare charity has said the animals are not available for rehoming.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “Two cats are in our care, have been seen by a vet and are being well looked after.
“They will remain in our care while the investigation continues and are not available for rehoming although we have lots of beautiful cats who are looking for new homes.We understand the high level of interest in this incident and can reassure you that our experienced officers are carrying out a full and thorough investigation.
“Due to the fact that this is a live investigation, we are limited in what we can say, however we will provide updates when we are able.”
The RSPCA is now leading an investigation, alongside Essex Police, which Kurt Zouma is co-operating with.
Shortly after the footage emerged, he issued a statement saying there were “no excuses” for his behaviour and he was “deeply sorry” if the video upset anyone.
Becky Thwaites, head of public affairs at national pet charity Blue Cross, said she fully supported a prosecution.
A Change.org petition, calling on Zouma to be prosecuted, has been signed by almost 290,000 people.
