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GEORGE TOWN – The International Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) has offered a reward of up to RM5,000 to anyone who can aid in tracing the party behind a series of fatal dog poisoning cases in Penang. The non-governmental organisation’s initiative is being supported by the Penang Island City Council.
IAPWA manager Choong Koon Yean announced the offer after a meeting with councillor Connie Tan and residents of Island Glades here.
This comes following claims by David Yim, a former MCA Bayan Baru division leader that up to 29 strays have been found dead in the area.
It was claimed on social media that plastic bags of food believed to have been poisoned were found near the carcasses.
“Several feeders have lodged reports with the police and veterinary services department. I hope they will investigate and take action against the killer,” said Yim.
His remarks came on the heels of other residents alleging that a dog killer has been prowling in the suburb of Island Glades, where up to 29 canines were killed.
This prompted Tan, a DAP member, and the residents to hold a meeting to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
Tan stressed that public cooperation is crucial and urged residents in the neighbourhood to be on the lookout for suspicious characters loitering around.
She said that MBPP will provide support services to help trace the alleged dog killers.
Among the proposals are to install CCTV cameras in strategic locations near the residential area, especially in places where strays are known to gather.
MBPP has urged members of the public with information to contact the council’s helplines by phone at 04-2637-000 or Whatsapp at 016-200-4082.
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2015, there are clauses dealing with such offences, namely Section 29 (on animal cruelty), Section 30 (killing of animals), and Section 31 (administration of poisons).
Any person found guilty (of an offence under the act) can be fined not less than RM20,000, with the maximum fine being RM100,000, or face a maximum of three years’ jail or both.
The council has undertaken a neutering programme to help the island reduce the number of strays, but it has proven to be a challenge as the homeless dogs are difficult to contain. – The Vibes, April 10, 2023
