Dog killers on the loose

Scene of the crime: A police officer taking photographs of the area where the dead dogs were found.

IPOH: A spate of stray dog poisoning cases is causing public concern and they want the authorities to take serious action against the perpetrators.

With at least 50 dogs found dead in the past three weeks, suspected to have been poisoned, the public are concerned that the cruel act will get worse if the perpetrators are not brought to justice.

An animal rescue non-governmental organisation here is offering a reward to those who can provide information on the individuals responsible for poisoning the dogs.

In the latest incident, which is believed to have occurred on Christmas Eve, nine stray dogs were found dead near a factory in Puncak Jelapang.

About a week earlier, six dogs in Taman Cempaka were found dead, also suspected to be poisoned.

Mutts and Mittens president Chong Choon Kit said they would reward those who could provide information on the responsible individuals for the killings in Puncak Jelapang.

“We received some public donations that will be used as the reward. We hope the individuals behind

the merciless poisoning can be found, ” he said.

Chong managed to get a CCTV recording on the incident in Puncak Jelapang but could not get a clear view of the suspects.

“A check in the area found some chicken heads that are believed to have been laced with poison. We believe the dogs ate the chicken heads.

“My team has received calls and messages about similar incidents in the past three weeks.

“We estimate that at least 50 stray dogs have been killed using this method, ” he said.

Kenneth Wong, who works nearby, said he was alerted by the security guards who found the dead dogs near the office.

“Based on the CCTV footage, we believe the perpetrator came to the area on Christmas Eve between 9am and 10pm.

“The security guard told me that the poisoning was also happening at the nearby housing area.

“We have lodged a police report and hope those responsible will be brought to justice, ” he said.

Ipoh Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals president Ricky Soong, who condemned the cruel act, said the situation had gotten worse.

“The issue comes and goes, but it has gotten very serious this time. There were also similar incidents near Menglembu and Bercham, ” he said.

“We hope the police can beef up patrols and residents should also watch out for strangers roaming in their neighbourhoods.”

Ipoh OCPD Asst Comm A. Asmadi Abdul Aziz confirmed that an individual lodged a report on Friday.

“A person who works near the factory found the dogs laying on the street with blood oozing out from their mouths. He buried the dogs behind the factory.

“The Veterinary Services Department has exhumed the remains

for investigation, ” he said, adding that based on the CCTV footage, four men on motorcycles were

seen throwing food around the area.

“We hope those who have information will come forward or contact the nearest police station, ” said ACP Asmadi.