GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Veterinary Services Department (DVS) and police have launched an investigation into a case of animal abuse after a dog was caught on video being dragged behind a moving motorcycle in Batu Lanchang on Wednesday (Sept 23).
The incident, which reportedly took place around 7.00pm in the Taman Hijau area, was halted only after a concerned passerby intervened.
Video footage of the incident shows two men on a motorcycle, with the pillion rider dragging the black dog along the tarmac by a rope tied around its neck. The animal suffered severe visible injuries to its limbs during the ordeal.
Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong said he was alerted to the viral video posted online by local animal rescuer David Yim Boon Leong, prompting immediate action.
"Following the video, I instructed my special assistant to lodge a police report at the Jelutong police station at approximately 11.00pm on Wednesday," Ong said in a statement on Thursday (Sept 24).
Ong added that Yim has also filed a formal complaint with DVS and reached out to the eyewitness. However, the current condition and whereabouts of the dog remain unknown.
"I hope the police will conduct a swift investigation to identify those responsible and take strict legal action if animal cruelty offences are proven," Ong added, urging eyewitnesses or anyone with information to contact the authorities.
When contacted, Penang DVS director Dr Saira Banu Mohamed Rejab confirmed that an official investigation is underway under animal welfare laws.
"We are currently gathering all relevant evidence and will provide an update once the investigation is complete," Dr Saira said.
