JOHOR BARU: Stern action will be taken over any breach of standard operating procedures (SOP) in an incident where a stray dog was allegedly rammed to death during an enforcement operation here, says state executive councillor Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.
The Johor housing and local government committee chairman said the state government viewed the matter seriously and would not compromise on any form of negligence, misconduct or non-compliance with enforcement procedures.
“Any action that violates the SOP, tarnishes the image of enforcement operations or causes public concern will not be protected by the state government.
“If investigations find that there was a breach of SOP or negligence, firm action without compromise will be taken, including suspension of operations, termination of contract, blacklisting and legal action against those responsible,” he said in a statement Tuesday (May 20).
Mohd Jafni said the incident occurred during an operation involving stray dogs in the Puteri Wangsa area on May 15.
Following the incident, he said the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) had conducted an internal investigation and found that the individual involved was an employee of a contractor appointed to carry out stray dog nuisance elimination operations.
“A show-cause letter has been issued to the contractor for failing to comply with the SOP and terms of appointment,” he said.
Mohd Jafni also noted that a police report has been filed to enable further investigations into possible elements of negligence, misconduct, abuse of power or violations of the law.
He stressed that all operations related to the capture and disposal of stray dogs must be carried out in a controlled and prudent manner, and in full compliance with the standard operating procedures set by the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
At the same time, he reminded pet owners that under the Licensing of Dogs By-Laws (MBJB) 1995, owners are responsible for ensuring their dogs are properly controlled and not allowed to roam freely without supervision.
“This is important to avoid disturbing public order and posing risks to public safety,” he said.
He added that the Johor government and MBJB remained committed to ensuring enforcement operations are conducted professionally, with integrity and in accordance with the law, while balancing public safety, animal welfare and social harmony.
On Wednesday (May 20), a video of a pickup truck killing a dog by ramming into it has been making rounds on social media.
In the viral video, a red pickup truck, believed to be of a local council subcontractor, could be seen zooming past a row of houses before running over the dog in the middle of the road.
The injured animal was seen struggling after the impact before collapsing on the road.
