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An animal welfare group has called for an investigation after a stray dog named Rocky died during a capture operation in Taman Teluk Gedung Indah, Klang, on Wednesday night, 29 July
In a statement today, 31 July, Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) alleged that Rocky was beaten, strangled, and killed by several men despite attempts by residents to stop the incident.
Videos of the incident have since circulated widely on social media, with Rocky's longtime caretakers mourning the dog's death and calling for justice.
The footage shows a woman crying behind the camera while others plead with the men to release the dog. The men can be heard shouting back, telling them to let go of the loop rope.
SAFM president Kalaivanan Ravichandran said animal capture operations should never result in an animal being injured or killed
He claimed that two Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) officers were present at the scene and urged the authorities to investigate those involved, while calling on the council to conduct an internal investigation.
"Whether this incident is related to animal licensing is irrelevant. The lack of a licence does not give anyone the right to beat, strangle, drag, or cause the death of an animal.
"There are lawful enforcement procedures in place to address these issues. Cruelty to animals is not a form of enforcement," he told FMT.
SAFM added that it has arranged for Rocky's body to be examined by the Selangor Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) to document any injuries and determine the cause of death.
Meanwhile, MBDK confirmed that it carried out a stray dog capture operation that night following complaints from residents over safety concerns linked to an increase in stray dogs in the area
In a statement reported by the New Straits Times, MBDK said the enforcement action was conducted under By-Law 17(1) of the MPK 2007 Dog Licensing and Dog Breeding Premises By-Laws.
The council said the operation involved 11 personnel, a Health Department officer, and about 50 residents, who captured 12 stray dogs using loop equipment that complied with standards set by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government while prioritising animal welfare.
However, MBDK alleged that a group of individuals obstructed its personnel while they were attempting to capture a dog found roaming unsupervised on Jalan Sama Gagah 20
It also alleged that one individual attempted to cut the loop rope with a knife and threatened to harm themself if the dog was not released.
"The struggle and commotion that occurred disrupted the efforts of council personnel to loosen and release the equipment for the safety of the animal, resulting in the animal's death," it said.
Both SAFM and MBDK said they have lodged police reports over the incident — SAFM over alleged animal cruelty and MBDK over the alleged obstruction of public officers. Investigations are ongoing.
SAYS has reached out to MBDK for further comment.
