NIBONG TEBAL – The reprieve for illegal pig farms in Kg Selamat here has ended as police have opened an investigation paper to look into the longstanding Sg Kereh pollution caused by farm effluents.
Seberang Prai Utara district police chief ACP Noorzainy Mohd Noor said the investigation that started on November 19 is now in the final stage before being handed over to the prosecutor in January for further action.
“Forensics have taken samples in Sg Kereh last week to detect pig DNA.
“In fact, we have recorded evidence from farmers, veterinary officers and local authorities,” he told The Vibes.
He said samples from eight pig farms – identified as involved in the pollution issue – were sampled and sent to the Chemistry Department in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Noorzainy added that the police are currently in the process of receiving all data and reports from the enforcement before completing the investigation.
“The case is being investigated under Section 430 of the Penal Code.”
Section 430 provides for an offence of mischief by causing a diminution in the supply of water for agricultural purposes, or for food or drink for human beings or for animals.
It provides for imprisonment of not less than five years and a maximum of 30 years and a fine, or both, upon conviction.
State Agrotechnology, Food Safety, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin said she instructed the Department of Irrigation and Drainage to lodge a police report regarding the water pollution in Sg Kereh.
Earlier, The Vibes reported nearly 50 pig farms in Kg Selamat, near Tasek Gelugor, believed to have been operating without licence for more than 40 years.
The situation has resulted in more than 1,000 residents, especially in neighbouring Kg Tok Bedu, suffering the stench emanating from Sg Kereh, which is polluted by effluents from these farms. – The Vibes, December 14, 2020
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