Man claims trial to animal cruelty against Rocky

Shah Idham Nor Haikal Shaharom appeared in Klang sessions court, charged with animal cruelty towards a dog named Rocky during a stray dog-catching operation last month. The volunteer with the Klang city council claims he strangled the animal with a looped rope outside a residence in Taman Telok Gedung Indah, Port Klang, on July 29. The offense, under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act, carries a fine from RM20,000 to RM100,000, up to three years imprisonment, or both upon conviction.

Judge Mujib Saroji granted Shah Idham bail of RM6,000 with one surety and ordered him to report to the veterinary services department (DVS) monthly until the case is resolved. The trial has been scheduled for October 8. DVS prosecutor Sharif Sabran represented the prosecution, while lawyer Rafique Rashid Ali defended Shah Idham. Rocky succumbed to injuries during the Port Klang enforcement operation on July 29.

The Klang city council defended its officers, stating the dog's owner became aggressive during the operation. They added that the woman tried to cut the restraining loop and threatened to harm herself if Rocky was not released.