KLANG: The Besut District Council (MDB) will submit a report to the Terengganu state government regarding the recent shooting of street dogs in Jerteh.
The incident has sparked outrage among animal lovers as it involved the death of a canine known on social media as Kopi. "MDB will deliver the report by Sunday (Oct 13)," said Terengganu exco for local councils Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah.
Two individuals who regularly fed Kopi told The Star that the dog's sudden and brutal killing has greatly affected them emotionally.
Kopi had gained popularity among dog lovers after a TikTok video in March showed her playing with a kitten.
Abby Razali, one of Kopi's feeders, described the dog as gentle and non-aggressive, even when taunted by local children.
Dr Marzuna Md Yunus, from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), previously stated that shooting is only permitted in emergencies, to control diseases like rabies, or if a dog is aggressive and poses a threat to people.
She said that shooting should not be used merely for population control without these factors.
Another feeder recounted running out to stay with Kopi as she lay dying after the shooting. He said the shooters saw him and left but he could still hear shots nearby.
"Many dogs that were usually there were missing the next day," he said.
Questions now arise as to why MDB initiated the shooting and whether those with the firearms were licensed.
Attempts to reach the MDB president for comment were unsuccessful.
