Animal welfare group urges probe into alleged sexual abuse of cat
By Kalbana Perimbanayagam
KUALA LUMPUR: An animal welfare group has urged authorities to investigate alleged sexual abuse involving a cat after a video surfaced on TikTok.
In a statement tonight, Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) called on the police, the Department of Veterinary Services and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to investigate the footage and verify the claims.
"Such allegations must be taken seriously. If proven, the act would constitute a grave form of animal abuse that warrants stern action under Malaysian law," it said.
SAFM urged authorities to investigate the possible application of Section 377 of the Penal Code and Section 29 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, where applicable.
It also called for investigators to identify those involved, verify the authenticity of the footage, establish where the alleged incident took place and secure relevant digital evidence.
"Immediate priority must also be given to locating the cat, assessing its condition and ensuring its safety," it said.
The group said effective enforcement was essential to safeguarding animal welfare and maintaining public confidence in the protection afforded to animals under the law.
It urged anyone with credible information, original recordings or other relevant information on the case to assist the investigation.
"SAFM expects the relevant authorities to act without delay, prioritise the safety of the animal and ensure accountability through due process," it said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd