SHAH ALAM — The Royal Klang City Council (MBDK) has handed over the investigation into an incident during a stray dog-catching operation in Taman Teluk Gedung Indah, Port Klang, which resulted in the death of a dog yesterday, to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

MBDK said in a statement that the incident occurred during an operation conducted from 8.30pm to midnight following complaints from residents over safety concerns arising from an increase in the stray dog population.

The enforcement operation was carried out in accordance with By-law 17(1) of the MPK Dog Licensing and Dog Breeding Establishment By-Laws 2007, with the support of the Health, Community and Sustainable Development Committee (JKKPM), and the area councillor was notified.

“All dogs were captured using ‘Loop’ equipment in accordance with the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) standards to ensure the operation was carried out safely while prioritising animal welfare. A total of 12 stray dogs were successfully captured,” the council said.

However, it said that during the operation at Jalan Sama Gagah 20, a group of individuals obstructed MBDK personnel from carrying out their duties while they were attempting to capture a dog found roaming unattended on a public road.

One individual acted aggressively by attempting to cut the ‘Loop’ strap with a knife and threatened self-harm if the dog was not released, it said.

The ensuing struggle and commotion made it difficult for MBDK personnel to loosen and remove the equipment safely, resulting in the animal’s death.

“To prevent the situation from escalating further and to avoid injuries, MBDK personnel released the equipment,” it said, with police officers later arriving at the scene to bring the situation under control.

Following the incident, MBDK lodged a police report over the obstruction of public servants from carrying out their duties and the alleged threat involving a sharp weapon for further action under the law.