The NSPCA received footage of young elephants being abused by trainers.

JOHANNESBURG - The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) on Monday said it has laid charges against staff at an elephant park in the Eastern Cape.

This after the body received footage of young elephants being abused by trainers.

NSPCA inspector Wendy Willson says the video shows baby and juvenile elephants being severely injured at Elephants of Eden and the Knysna Elephant Park by forceful training methods.

"This involved breaking the elephant's spirit with chains, ropes, bullhooks, sticks, electric prodders, and they break that animal down until it is scared of further punishment and that's why it obeys humans."

The NSPCA said it obtained a warrant to inspect the Knysna Elephant Park but was denied access by the park's Lisette Withers.

The organisation adds they were obliged to obtain assistance from police.

Withers allegedly only permitted entry when she was advised that her persistent refusal would lead to her arrest.

A charge of obstruction has also been laid against Withers.