Malaysian Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting a Cat in Kelantan, Here's What We Know About the Case So Far

A 49-year-old Malaysian man was arrested by Kelantan police on 19 October after a viral video allegedly showed him committing an indecent act involving a cat at his home.

What happened?

Over the weekend, Malaysians were shocked by a viral video allegedly showing a man sexually abusing a cat.

The disturbing footage surfaced on TikTok on 18 October and quickly sparked widespread outrage, with many Malaysians calling for authorities to take immediate action.

An animal welfare group also issued a statement urging the police to investigate the alleged abuse.

In addition, Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) called on the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to investigate the footage and verify the allegations.

“Such allegations must be taken seriously. If proven, the act would constitute a grave form of animal abuse that warrants stern action under Malaysian law."

Immediate priority must also be given to locating the cat, assessing its condition, and ensuring its safety. SAFM expects the relevant authorities to act without delay, prioritise the safety of the animal, and ensure accountability through due process,” the group said, as reported by NST.

The suspect has three previous criminal convictions

Pasir Puteh district police chief Superintendent Saari Yaacob said police received a report regarding the viral video on the same day it surfaced, prompting officers to arrest a man to assist in the investigation.

Image Credit: NST

The suspect, whose identity has not been revealed, reportedly has three prior criminal convictions involving drug-related offences and housebreaking.

Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the 49-year-old suspect has since been remanded. Investigations also found that he kept a total of 11 cats at his home, including the cat featured in the viral video.

“The suspect is unmarried and has three criminal records involving drug offences and housebreaking. However, a urine test conducted upon his arrest returned negative,” he said, as reported by NST.

Police are also looking into the suspect's mental health following claims that he suffers from psychological issues.

Several cats have been removed from the home

Meanwhile, police officers and animal welfare activists removed the cats from the suspect's home following his arrest.

The felines have reportedly been relocated to a care centre to ensure their safety. The cat allegedly involved in the incident has also been handed over to the Department of Veterinary Services for further examination.

Image Credit: NST

Animal welfare activist Nur Izyan Syahida Rosli reportedly took two of the cats from the suspect's home to be cared for by Kelab Pencinta Haiwan Pewaris Kelantan.

Nur Izyan added that the group is prepared to adopt the cat involved in the incident once police have completed their investigation.

The case is being investigated under Section 377 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.

Police have also warned the public against sharing the viral video, stating that those found doing so could face action under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. Upon conviction, offenders may be fined up to RM500,000, sentenced to a maximum of two years in prison, or both.

Featured Image Credit: Four Paws UK, NST