KUALA TERENGGANU: The Terengganu Veterinary Services Department (DVS) says the case of a cat reportedly abused by two children in Dungun late last month has been classified as no further action (NFA).
Terengganu DVS director Dr Anun Man said the decision communicated by the deputy public prosecutor to the department was based on Section 82 of the Penal Code.
The section covers the immunity of child offenders, and states that children aged 10 years and below are considered incapable of committing a crime.
"The individuals investigated have not yet reached the age of criminal liability.
"Therefore, the act cannot be classified as a criminal offence under the principle of doli incapax (literally: incapable of deceit; in other words, too young to have criminal intent)," she said in a statement on Thursday (April 23).
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Anun said their investigation found that the main perpetrators in the incident were two children, aged four and eight.
She said DVS had summoned the parents, grandmother, grandfather and individuals who recorded the video of the incident to assist in the investigation.
"Although no legal action was taken, we advised and reprimanded the perpetrators' family to ensure that incidents of animal cruelty do not recur.
"DVS emphasises that the protection of animal welfare is a shared responsibility. The department expresses its appreciation to the community for the concern shown," she said.
Previously, an 18-second video went viral on social media showing a cat being abused by two children, sparking public outrage.
Following that, Anun's office received more than 300 complaints about the incident. – Bernama
