Johor launches week-long operation to capture 5 dogs that mauled toddler

Johor has initiated a week-long initiative to track and capture five stray dogs that attacked a two-year-old girl in Kampung Tambak, Batu Pahat. State Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khaled emphasized the importance of capturing the dogs and testing them for rabies, stating that ruling out the disease is crucial for the child's safety and recovery.

The hospital is concerned about the potential rabies transmission from the dogs. Immediate action is required to capture and examine the dogs. The operation involves the Batu Pahat district office, Department Veterinary Services, and police, employing various lawful methods for tracking the dogs. Surveillance, monitoring, and intelligence-gathering will be intensified to ensure a comprehensive approach.

The Batu Pahat Municipal Council and DVS conducted previous operations in August, capturing 22 stray dogs. However, continued presence of stray dogs necessitates stepped-up and ongoing capture efforts. The state government will cover all medical treatment and rehabilitation costs for Nur Haira Wafiqah Muhammad Hamizi, who remains sedated and under treatment at Sultanah Aminah Hospital's paediatric intensive care unit.

Fared also expressed concern for Nur Haira's 12-year-old brother, who is traumatized after witnessing the attack.