Ministry warns of fines and jail for cruelty to animals
It also reported incidents in which animals were left in public places without supervision.
The Ministry of Animal Welfare has warned that legal action will be taken against individuals who mistreat, harass or kill cats, as well as those who abandon animals in public places without care.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry said it has received complaints about cases involving animals being injured, abused or killed in the Maldives. It also reported incidents in which animals were left in public places without supervision.
The ministry said such actions are unacceptable and will be addressed under the law.
The statement followed reports of a case in HA. Hoarafushi involving the abuse and killing of a cat. The incident is under investigation after concerns were raised by animal rights groups.
Authorities noted that cases of harm to stray cats are reported from time to time. However, action prescribed under existing laws has not always been enforced. A facility established to manage stray cats in Malé has also not been operating as intended, according to the ministry.
The ministry said the Animal Welfare and Protection Act, ratified last December, now defines and guarantees the rights of animals.
“These rights are now protected under the Animal Welfare and Protection Act. Therefore, we inform you that strict legal measures, such as fines and imprisonment, will be taken under this law against those who mistreat, abuse, kill, or abandon animals without care,” the ministry said.
The law recognises several rights of animals, including freedom from hunger, thirst and malnutrition, freedom from fear and distress, freedom from physical discomfort, freedom from pain, injury and disease, and the ability to express normal patterns of behaviour.
The Act also includes provisions relating to the mistreatment of animals and the abandonment of animals in public places.
Under these provisions, committing an act of cruelty against an animal is prohibited and may result in a fine ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 50,000.
Releasing domestic animals into public places without supervision is also prohibited. Violations may result in fines ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 10,000.
In addition, Section 625 of the Penal Code provides that a person convicted of cruelty to an animal may face a prison sentence of between one and three months.
The ministry said animals are living beings capable of feeling pain and distress and should therefore be treated with care.
It also noted that Islam emphasises compassion and care towards animals.
The ministry called on the public to act responsibly and report cases of cruelty to the relevant authorities.
“Ensuring the safety of animals is a collective social responsibility for all of us. We assure you that the government will enforce the laws established to ensure animal welfare and protect their rights,” the ministry said.
