KLANG, Aug 20 — A volunteer with the Klang city council claimed trial in the Sessions Court today for allegedly committing animal cruelty against a dog named Rocky during a stray dog-catching operation last month.
Shah Idham Nor Haikal Shaharom is accused of causing unnecessary pain or suffering to the animal by strangling it with a looped rope outside a residence in Taman Teluk Gedong Indah, Port Klang, on July 29, FMT reported.
The charge, brought under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act, carries a potential penalty of a fine between RM20,000 and RM100,000, up to three years in prison, or both, upon conviction.
Judge Mujib Saroji granted bail of RM6,000 with one surety and ordered Shah Idham to report to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) every month pending the disposal of the case. The court has fixed Oct 8 for case management.
DVS prosecuting officer Sharif Sabran appeared for the prosecution, while lawyer Rafique Rashid Ali represented the accused.
The incident occurred during an enforcement operation in Port Klang on July 29, which resulted in Rocky's death. The local council has defended its officers, alleging that the dog’s owner behaved aggressively during the operation.
According to the council, the woman attempted to cut the loop used to restrain the dog and threatened to harm herself if Rocky was not released.
