Animal Cruelty Case: Mechanic Charged in Sessions Court
A 42-year-old mechanic, Hew Kan Wai, has been charged in the Sessions Court in Ipoh with animal cruelty for allegedly beating a dog with a sledgehammer, causing injuries last month.
The Incident
According to the charge, Hew was accused of cruelly striking a male mixed-breed Pit Bull with a sledgehammer in front of a house in Taman Ria, Ipoh, at around 8 pm on January 18. The incident was reportedly sparked by the suspect being bitten by the dog.
The Charge
Hew is facing a charge under Subsection 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772), which carries a fine of between RM20,000 and RM100,000, or imprisonment for up to three years, or both, upon conviction.
Bail
Deputy public prosecutor Qurratu’aini Khalifah offered bail at RM20,000 with additional conditions at the court’s discretion. However, National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK) lawyer Kathan Maruthamuthu, representing Hew, requested a lower bail, citing his client’s RM2,000 monthly income and financial burden. The court set bail at RM2,500 and ordered Hew to report to the nearest police station monthly until the case is resolved. The next mention is fixed on March 11.
Investigation
On January 20, Ipoh district police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said a mechanic was arrested for allegedly beating his pet dog with a sledgehammer at a house in Taman Ria. The suspect reportedly acted out of anger after being bitten.
The Viral Video
A 43-second video of the incident, recorded by a nearby resident, went viral last month on the Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better Facebook page, showing a man hitting a dog with a sledgehammer.
Conclusion
The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the need for stricter laws to protect animals from cruelty. As the investigation continues, it is essential to ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable for their actions and that justice is served.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the charge against the suspect?
A: The suspect is charged with animal cruelty under Subsection 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772).
Q: What is the possible punishment for the charge?
A: The charge carries a fine of between RM20,000 and RM100,000, or imprisonment for up to three years, or both, upon conviction.
Q: What is the bail amount set by the court?
A: The court set bail at RM2,500, with the condition that the suspect reports to the nearest police station monthly until the case is resolved.