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

PASIR PUTEH: Police and animal welfare activists have removed several cats from the home of a suspect arrested after a video showing him committing an indecent act involving a cat went viral.

District police chief Superintendent Saari Yaacob said the animals were relocated to ensure their safety following the 49-year-old suspect's arrest at 10am yesterday.

The cat involved in the incident was handed over to the Veterinary Services Department for further examination.

Saari said police are investigating the suspect's mental health status following claims that he has psychological issues.

"We have yet to receive medical confirmation or documentation regarding his condition.

"To protect the remaining cats from harm, we have moved them to a care centre," he said when met in Selinsing last night.

The suspect was detained after a 56-second video showing the alleged act triggered public outrage online.

Saari warned the public against sharing the video, noting that offenders face action under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a maximum fine of RM500,000, up to two years' imprisonment, or both.

Meanwhile, animal welfare activist Nur Izyan Syahida Rosli said she had taken two cats from the suspect's home to be cared for under the Kelab Pencinta Haiwan Pewaris Kelantan.

She added that the group is prepared to adopt the cat involved in the incident once police complete their investigation.

"We are ready to take in the cat if permitted by the authorities after investigations conclude," she said.