Ex-Klang MP calls for probe into 'brutal killing' of stray dog during council operation

Former Klang MP Charles Santiago has called for a thorough investigation into the death of a stray dog during an enforcement operation in Klang, Selangor.

In a statement today, he said the dog, known as “Rocky”, was allegedly beaten to death by a group of men despite attempts by a family, which had cared for it since it was a puppy, to save it.

Describing the incident as a “deliberate, brutal killing”, Charles said the family had contacted police but was allegedly told no action could be taken because the dog was unlicensed.

“A lack of licence does not give anyone the right to torture and kill an animal. The authorities must investigate those involved and ensure they are held accountable,” he said.

He added that the police response should also be scrutinised if the family’s account was accurate.

However, the Royal City Council of Klang (MBDK) disputed the allegations, saying the dog died during a stray dog capture operation in Taman Teluk Gedung Indah on Wednesday night following residents’ complaints about public safety.

“An individual acted aggressively by attempting to cut the capture loop with a knife and threatened to harm themselves if the animal was not released.

“The ensuing struggle and commotion hindered MBDK personnel from loosening and removing the capture equipment to ensure the animal’s safety, resulting in the animal’s death,” MBDK said in a statement today.

A video clip circulating online, purportedly showing the incident, showed a woman confronting enforcement officers as they restrained a dog with a capture loop attached to a long pole in a residential area at night.

Several people were seen surrounding the officers, with shouting heard throughout the footage. The woman demanded that the dog be released, while a man shouted that the dog had bitten his child.

Another woman later appeared to intervene by attempting to cut the dog loose with a knife, but stopped after being confronted by the men.

The clip ended with the dog lying motionless on the road with the capture loop still around its neck.

Council says committed to animal standards

MBDK said the area had previously recorded a stray dog attack that nearly claimed a child’s life.

It added that police were called to restore order and that it had lodged a report over alleged obstruction of public officers and threats involving a bladed weapon.

The council expressed regret over the incident and said it remained committed to enforcing animal welfare standards.

“MBDK also calls on all pet owners to always be responsible by ensuring that their pet licences are always valid and not allowing their animals to roam around to the point of disrupting public safety,” it said.

The operation, conducted with the support of about 50 residents, resulted in 12 stray dogs being captured using loop equipment that complied with Housing and Local Government Ministry standards, MBDK said.

South Klang district police chief Lim Jit Huey confirmed to Malaysiakini that a police report had been lodged and investigations were ongoing.

MP rejects religious justification

In a separate statement, Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid said there was nothing Islamic about cruelty towards dogs.

She said Islam calls for compassion, rather than violence, when dealing with animals that may pose a risk.

“Those who attempt to justify this horrific act by invoking religion do a grave disservice to Islam,” she said.

Syerleena also expressed concern over allegations that police had not acted because Rocky lacked a licence, calling it “unacceptable”.

She urged the authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate enforcement action.

“Justice for Rocky is not just about one dog. It is about defending the rule of law, protecting the vulnerable, and making it unequivocally clear that vigilantism has no place in Malaysia,” she said.

Animal welfare groups urge reforms beyond funding for strays

SNAPSHOT | Dept to cooperate in prison riot findings review; police reports filed over stray dog's death

NGO urges probe on viral clip, says running over dogs with trucks not animal control

Animal welfare activists to challenge excessive bail-out charges for strays