Police, activists move cats to safety after viral video sparks outrage

PASIR PUTEH: Police and animal welfare groups have rescued several cats from the home of a man arrested after a video surfaced showing him committing an indecent act involving one of the felines. Superintendent Saari Yaacob of the district police force announced the cats' removal to ensure their safety following the 49-year-old suspect's arrest at 10 a.m. yesterday.

The cat seen in the video was handed over to the Veterinary Services Department for further examination. Saari hinted that police are probing the suspect's mental health status, stating that they have not yet obtained medical confirmation or documentation regarding his condition. To shield the remaining cats from potential harm, the police have relocated them to a care center, Saari told reporters in Selinsing last night.

The suspect was taken into custody following the viral 56-second video, which sparked widespread outrage online. Saari cautioned the public against disseminating the video, explaining that offenders could face legal consequences under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. This provision carries a maximum penalty of RM500,000 in fines, up to two years in prison, or both.

Meanwhile, animal welfare activist Nur Izyan Syahida Rosli revealed that she had taken two cats from the suspect's residence for their care and protection. Izyan's organization, Kelab Pencinta Haiwan Pewaris Kelantan, is prepared to adopt the cat featured in the video once police complete their investigation and clear it to leave the facility.

Izyan expressed readiness to take in the cat if and when authorities give the green light, provided the investigation is concluded.