GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Veterinary Services Department (DVS) has identified two men seen in a viral video dragging a black dog behind a motorcycle in Jelutong.
The dog has been seized by authorities to receive immediate examination and veterinary treatment for injuries to its limbs.
The incident occurred around 7.00pm on Wednesday (Sept 23) in Taman Hijau, Batu Lanchang. In the footage, a pillion rider on a moving motorcycle is seen pulling the dog along the road by a rope tied to its neck. The abuse was stopped only after a concerned passerby intervened.
Addressing the incident in a statement on Thursday, DVS confirmed that action was taken immediately following public complaints.
"Both individuals involved have been identified, and the dog has been rescued for examination and treatment," the Thursday (Sept 24) statement read. The case is currently being investigated under Section 29(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
The video gained widespread attention after being posted online by local animal rescuer David Yim Boon Leong, who contacted the eyewitness and lodged a formal report with DVS.
Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong stated he was alerted to the clip and instructed his special assistant to file a police report at the Jelutong station at 11.00pm on Wednesday.
DVS urged the public to refrain from speculation and asked that further information be directed through official channels.
