A 23-YEAR-OLD mechanic has been fined RM20,000 after pleading guilty to brutally beating a male dog with an iron rod, in a case that drew widespread outrage after a video of the incident circulated on social media two weeks ago.
Magistrate Anis Hanini Abdullah handed down the sentence to M Thineshkumar and ordered that he serve one month in prison if he fails to pay the fine.
The offence took place between 10.30pm on 18 September and 9.00am on 19 September 2025 at a house on Lebuh Kledang Utara in Taman Arkid, Ipoh.
According to the facts of the case, the accused struck the dog repeatedly with a metal rod, ignoring attempts by his own mother to stop him.
The dog was taken to a veterinary clinic the next day, where a medical examination revealed serious injuries to the head and nose, including a puncture wound.
The animal was returned home but succumbed to its injuries and died later that same day.
The charge was brought under Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772), which provides for a minimum fine of RM20,000 and up to RM100,000, or imprisonment of up to three years, or both, for acts of cruelty against animals.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Amal Aziemah Abd Kohar led the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented. - October 1, 2025
