Police searching for witnesses to dog-shooting incident

Police are searching for witnesses to the incident of a dog being shot dead, possibly with a rifle, at Taman Junid Perdana here last Friday.

The incident was first noticed by an 18-year-old student who then lodged a report with the authorities.

District police chief, ACP Azman Ayob said they believed the stray dog was killed with a rifle due to an empty bullet shell found at the scene.

"We call for (other) witnesses to come forward to help facilitate investigations," he said.

He also urged members of the public to not speculate on the incident.

"The police are asking the public to not make any speculations or comments, especially on social media. This is crucial as it can interfere with our investigation," Azman said today.

To date, the police have identified 14 individuals who possess firearm licence for farm use, and did not discount the possibility that the culprit could be among them.

In last Friday's incident, a stray dog was found dead, bloodstained, with an empty bullet shell nearby.

The case is being investigated under Section 429 of the Penal Code for animal killing, where if convicted, the culprit could face a five-year jail term or fine or both.

It is also investigated under Section 39 of the Arms Act 1960 and could be fined up to RM2,000 if convicted.