#JusticeForKopi: Activist Groups Plan To File A Civil Suit Against Besut Council
The NGOs condemned the inhumane methods allegedly used by municipal officers.
By Tamara Jayne — 21 Oct 2024, 11:01 AM
Hundreds gathered on Friday, 18 October, for the #JusticeForKopi rally, demanding accountability from authorities over the tragic death of a beloved stray dog named Kopi
The rally, organised by 13 non-governmental organisations (NGOs), took place at the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) headquarters in Putrajaya.
The NGOs, led by the Global Human Rights Federation, submitted a memorandum to DVS director-general, Dr Akma Nga Hamid, to protest the killing of Kopi.
The NGOs condemned the inhumane methods allegedly used by municipal officers, such as beating dogs with iron rods and dragging them by the neck
These actions frequently result in severe injuries or death, which the NGOs condemned as violations of animal rights.
They urged the department to enforce the Animal Welfare Act and hold officers accountable for breaking the law. The operation had involved 25 officers from various departments, including the Besut district council, district veterinary office, and the Kota Putera assemblyman's office.
Following the rally, on 19 October, DVS confirmed they are reviewing the memorandum and will provide updates on the ongoing investigation under the Animal Welfare Act.
On October 6, Kopi was killed during a stray culling operation conducted by the Besut District Council in Terengganu
Kopi, known for her gentle nature and regularly fed by locals, was shot by municipal officers, triggering widespread outrage from animal rights activists and the public.
Kopi had gained popularity on social media back in March 2024 when a video of her playing with a stray cat went viral.
In response to her death, a coalition of animal rights groups has announced plans to file a civil suit against the Besut District Council. Additionally, a police report was filed, calling for an investigation into the incident.
More than 31,000 people have signed a petition urging the Terengganu Menteri Besar Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar to take immediate action and ensure that those responsible for Kopi's death are held accountable.
