KUALA LUMPUR: Another mutilated cat was found on the campus grounds of Universiti Malaya, causing outrage and fear among netizens unsatisfied by the institution's response.
Photos of the white cat, with its legs dismembered at the joints, were posted by user Shima Aris with the caption: "Allauhakbar! Another dead cat discovered this morning at UM's Department of Microbiology and Genetics!
"This is clearly not caused by dogs! What is this nonsense Universiti Malaya? What are you covering up? Shame on you!"
It was previously reported that two stray cats with broken legs, severed limbs, and split abdomens were found in UM's campus grounds, causing a response by the student union condemning the violence.
However, Brickfields police chief Assistant Commissioner Ku Mashariman Ku Mahmood stated that UM security had been informed by the Veterinary Services Department that the injuries sustained by the cats were consistent with bites from wild animals.
Commenters, however, expressed scepticism, calling for a more thorough investigation and accountability.
User nurulfz criticised the lack of urgency in addressing the issue, stating, "Don't take this lightly just because it's animals. Do not try to close the case quickly!"
Another user, _iqbalsahlan, warned of the potential danger posed by the perpetrator, commenting, "This is an early sign of a psychopath who could escalate to worse crimes like rape and murder!."
The university, in a statement today, said it had lodged a second police report following the discovery of the carcass of the third cat.
It said it had also established the "Universiti Malaya Animal Guardians" initiative in August to address the issue of stray animals on campus in general.
The initiative's primary roles include identifying stray animals, collaborating with the university's Estates Department to rescue them, providing shelter and treatment, and raising awareness among the campus community on animal welfare and cruelty prevention.
The university has also increased security patrols and urged anyone with information about the incidents to contact UM Security at 03-79677777.