NIBONG TEBAL: Police today confirmed receiving a report about an alleged act of cruelty against a cat after a picture of the incident went viral on social media.
Seberang Prai Selatan police chief Superintendent Chong Boo Khim said they received the report at 5.29pm yesterday. The incident occurred in Simpang Ampat near here.
Chong said an investigation revealed the complainant had found a stray cat near his housing estate.
"He took the cat to be spayed at a nearby clinic. While on his way there, he did not realise that the cat, which he had placed behind the rear of his four-wheel vehicle, had tried to jump out and was hanging from a leash tied around its neck.
"He only realised it after he reached the clinic and immediately removed the leash," he said.
Chong said the matter had been referred to the state Veterinary Services Department.
Police have advised the public not to manipulate the case, which could cause confusion.
"The people should get information from official sources and not spread unverified news," he added.
It is learnt that the state Veterinary Services Department launched an investigation into an alleged act of cruelty against a cat after a picture of the incident went viral on social media.
Its director, Dr Saira Banu Mohamed Rejab, said the department had also lodged a police report over the incident. The case is being investigated under the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
The image has since gone viral and has sparked outrage among social media users, especially animal lovers.