Monday 16 Mar 2026
Stray cats in a street: Animal Welfare Ministry has warned the public regarding harsh penalties for animal cruelty and killing.(Sun Photo/Fayaz Moosa)
The Animal Welfare Ministry has issued a formal warning regarding the severe legal consequences for animal abuse and neglect. Emphasizing that animals are sentient beings deserving of protection, the Ministry highlighted that such acts constitute criminal offenses under the Animal Welfare Act and the Penal Code. Offenders face significant financial penalties and potential imprisonment. This directive follows widespread public condemnation regarding the deliberate killing of a cat in HA. Hoarafushi, prompting ongoing police investigations. The government urges citizens to uphold humanitarian values and immediately report any observed instances of mistreatment to ensure legal accountability for perpetrators.
Animal Welfare Ministry on Monday reminded the public that individuals who abuse, kill, or neglect animals could face fines and imprisonment.
The Ministry noted that there has been a recent increase in complaints about the mistreatment, killing, and physical abuse of animals, describing such behavior as “completely unacceptable.”
Emphasizing that animals are sentient beings, the Ministry stated that showing compassion toward them is both a humanitarian and religious duty.
It also explained that the Animal Welfare Act grants animals several basic rights, including freedom from hunger and thirst, fear and distress, physical discomfort, and protection from pain, injury, and disease. The Act also ensures animals can display their natural behaviors.
The Ministry warned that anyone found guilty of mistreating, abusing, killing, or abandoning animals will face strict legal consequences under the law, including significant fines and possible prison sentences.
According to the Ministry, the Act bans all forms of cruelty and neglect, with penalties ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 50,000 depending on the seriousness of the offense.
In its statement, the Ministry called on the public to take responsibility in preventing animal abuse and urged citizens to promptly report any cases of cruelty to the appropriate authorities.
This warning follows an ongoing police investigation into a case where a cat was deliberately harmed and killed in HA. Hoarafushi.
A video recently circulated on social media showing a cat being dragged by a rope tied around its neck, sparking widespread public outrage and condemnation.
The Police, on Sunday, said the incident was brought to their attention last Thursday night at approximately 19:06pm. The authority has questioned three individuals in connection with the case, recording their statements as part of the ongoing investigation.
Under Article 625 of the Penal Code, acts of cruelty against animals are considered a criminal offense. The minimum punishment for the offense is one month and six days of imprisonment, with the maximum sentence extending up to three months.
