GEORGE TOWN: The recent incident where 27 stray dogs died in a neighbourhood near Tanjung Bungah, suspected to be a result of poisoning, is believed to be an act by individuals frustrated with the growing dog population in the area.
Dr Tishrin Muhammad Ismail, head of the Regulatory Division at the Penang Veterinary Services Department (JPV), revealed that the investigation has faced significant hurdles due to a lack of concrete evidence pinpointing the exact cause of death.
“We received a public complaint on July 10, several days after the incident reportedly occurred. Unfortunately, the delayed report meant we couldn’t collect samples from the deceased dogs for analysis, as their carcasses had already been disposed of,” Dr Tishrin explained at a press conference today.
He added that upon visiting the site, authorities found no traces of poisoned food or CCTV footage, further complicating the investigation.
A subsequent complaint on July 14 reported another dead dog, but the carcass had already been cremated by the time of inspection. Interestingly, a dead crow was discovered nearby.
Media reports last week highlighted the case of a resident who lost their six-year-old husky to suspected poisoning, along with more than 20 other strays in the same area.
State Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye, who also attended the press conference, assured that if poisoning is confirmed, there will be no leniency towards the perpetrators.
H’ng emphasised that under Section 31 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772), those found guilty of animal cruelty face severe penalties, including fines ranging from RM20,000 to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
He urged nearby residents with any information or evidence, such as recordings, to cooperate with the Local Authority (PBT) or inform the JPV to aid in the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are calling for public assistance to help solve this distressing case and prevent future incidents of animal cruelty in the area.
