Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Probe Begins After 150 Cats Abandoned in Desert

The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) confirmed on Wednesday (October 4) that it has begun investigations into reports of 150 cats abandoned in the desert. Residents discovered the cats in Al Falah area. Rescuers said that 90 cats survived, but at least 62 died. Videos on social media showed dozens of dead cats in Al Falah. Volunteers who searched the Al Falah desert also found a number of dead dogs. The DMT said it has launched an investigation and will take “administrative and legal measures” against the perpetrators. The department stressed that investigations are still underway in coordination with authorities to identify individuals involved in the incident. DMT praised the public and communities for their efforts, as well as the volunteers for responding to the incident. The department also urged the public to report any incident of animal abuse or neglect by contacting 800555. Under the UAE law on animal control, it is illegal to abandon pets, with violators facing a fine of Dh10,000. It is also illegal to sell pets to anyone under the age of 18. Violators will be fined Dh3,000. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Abandoning pets will get you fined Dh10,000 What to do if you find a stray cat in UAE
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