Police investigate dog brutally hacked to death in Labasa

Police are investigating an incident in Labasa where a dog was brutally hacked to death at Naleba School Compound yesterday.

Police says statements are being recorded.

Meanwhile, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals - Fiji Islands says they have been informed the owner has identified and confronted the perpetrator, who has also allegedly confessed to this cruel and senseless act.

They say this is a stark and painful reminder of the brutal abuse some animals face in our communities.

SPCA says they are assisting the owner with the legal processes and condemn this inhumane behaviour in the strongest possible terms.

They have also confirmed an official police report has been filed at the Labasa Police Station and they will assist in following through the legal processes to ensure justice prevails.

SPCA has also highlighted the urgent need for a review of our laws to ensure they serve as a real deterrent.

Under the Fiji Animals (Prevention of Cruelty) Act, a person found guilty of cruelly ill-treating an animal can face a fine of up to $100 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

They say it is a sad reality that these penalties are woefully inadequate for such a barbaric act.

The Society is also calling on the Fiji Police Force to take these cases seriously as animal cruelty is a crime and often a precursor to violence against people.

They say they need the active involvement of Police to help them catch abusers and killers and act quickly on reports from the public.

The Society says they are ready and willing to work with them to ensure justice is served and that the law is enforced to its full extent.

SPCA also commend the public for continuing to voice these heinous acts as their voices are powerful, and they are what push for change.

They say by speaking out and refusing to be silent, they are an essential part of the fight for animal welfare.

The Society adds let's work together to push for harsh penalties and send a clear message that this type of violence will not be tolerated in Fiji.