RIYADH — The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) spokesperson Saleh Bindakhil has confirmed that the ministry is taking all necessary measures to identify the person who has abused a dog by using fireworks. The spokesman said that the ministry followed up on the video that went viral of people burning a dog in a sensitive part of its body by using fireworks. Bindakhil has confirmed that the ministry is coordinating with the security authorities to take all necessary measures to identify the abusers. He said that the moment the offenders are identified, the penalties stipulated in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), will be applied to them. According to the GCC Animal Welfare Act anyone convicted of torturing animals could be slapped with a fine of SR50,000. It is worth mentioning that the MEWA has called on everyone to adhere to the animal welfare system regulations and requirements of the Gulf Cooperation Council. It stressed the importance of immediately reporting any violation observed through the toll-free number 939.
