KUANTAN: Beginning next year, the Pahang government will launch a special operation to capture roaming livestock that wander off and pose a threat to road users across the state.
State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry, Biotechnology and Education Committee chairman, Datuk Seri Ir Mohd Soffi Abd Razak, hopes that the operation, codenamed 'Ops Khas', will help raise awareness among livestock breeders and reduce the alarming number of conflicts involving roaming livestock.
"The operation will ensure all cattle and buffalo breeders comply with the rules set by the authorities and will not let their animals roam into public areas or pose a threat to others, especially motorists.
"The 'Ops Khas' enforcement operation was initiated following the high number of complaints received by the Veterinary Services Department from the public about unattended livestock, which had led to accidents and even deaths involving motorists.
"Livestock breeders have been given several reminders in the past to ensure animals under their care do not stray onto public roads but such incidents still occur, forcing the authorities to round up the cattle or buffaloes. The operation will involve the Veterinary Services Department, police, and local authorities," he told reporters during a press conference here.
Soffi said that between January and Oct 31 this year, the authorities received 41 complaints about unattended livestock roaming freely and causing a nuisance to the public.
He said that under Section 9(1) of the state's Buffalo and Cow Control Enactment 2001, livestock breeders who are found guilty of leaving their animals in prohibited areas can face a fine of up to RM5,000 or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.
He added the prohibited areas include the road surface, a 20m radius from the road shoulder, and all public places.
On 'Ops Khas', Soffi said livestock that roam unattended will be seized, and the breeders have 14 days to collect their animals and will be issued a maximum compound of RM500 per animal.
"If the owners fail to turn up to claim the animals, then they will be confiscated or maybe put up for auction," he said.