KUALA LUMPUR: The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Selangor (SPCA) has offered a RM10,000 reward for verified information which could lead to the identification and prosecution of the culprit behind the series of cat mutilations in Universiti Malaya (UM).
Its chairman Christine Chin said the cruel acts are not only gruesome and heartbreaking, but are also a crime under the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
"We urge anyone with verified information to come forward. Together we can ensure justice for these innocent animals and prevent further tragedies.
"Although we have yet to ascertain the reason behind these cruel acts, the incident has stressed the need to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
"Regardless of the injuries were made by humans or from interactions between strays, it is important that we establish the facts and take steps to prevent further danger," she said in a media statement today.
It was previously reported that five cats had died under strange circumstances in the UM campus grounds. One cat carcass was found near the university's gymnasium.
Chin said the case has to be investigated from all angles to tackle the main cause, which was either human cruelty or insufficient management of strays.
"This reward campaign has proven to be effective in tackling animal cruelty. The same initiative in Penang helped stop a poisoning incident.
"The RM10,000 reward in UM is aimed to encourage whistle-blowing, prevent any future incidents and raise awareness.
"SPCA is also urging the UM community to continue to monitor and report any suspicious activities," she said.
Any information to be shared confidentially can be channelled to 011-51189716 or enquiries@spca.org.my.