Ministry to carry out thorough probe into Rocky’s killing, says Nga

 The housing and local government minister says there is no place for cruelty or abuse against animals.

Housing and local government minister Nga Kor Ming said any action taken by council enforcement officers must be carried out ‘professionally, responsibly, and humanely’. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Housing and local government minister Nga Kor Ming said the ministry will carry out a thorough investigation into the controversy sparked by the killing of a dog in Port Klang.

In a Facebook post, Nga said action will be taken if there is any breach of SOP or misconduct.

“The ministry takes this matter seriously.”

Nga then reminded local councils, which come under the ministry’s purview, to strictly adhere to the established SOPs, adding that any action taken by council enforcement officers must be carried out “professionally, responsibly, and humanely”.

“Whether stray or owned, every animal deserves to be treated with care and humanity. There is no place for cruelty or abuse,” he said.

Last night, the Klang City Council defended the actions of its officers following the death of a pet dog called Rocky which an animal rights group alleged had been tortured during an enforcement operation in Port Klang on Wednesday night.

The council said a woman had acted aggressively in attempting to cut a noose used to restrain the dog and had threatened to harm herself if the dog was not released.

Her actions triggered a commotion, which made it difficult for council officers to loosen the rope or let go of their equipment “for the sake of the animal’s safety”, it added.

The incident was part of an enforcement operation – which also involved 11 council staff members – in Taman Teluk Gedung Indah to catch stray dogs following complaints from residents in the area. - FMT