Several parts of a dead tiger were stolen after it was fatally struck by a lorry on the East-West Highway near Gerik, Perak, early this morning. The tigers body, discovered at approximately 5:30 am at Km67.1 of the highway, was found mutilated, with several parts, including its skin, fangs, claws, and whiskers, missing.
According to FMT, the Perak Wildlife Protection and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) quickly responded to the incident, expressing concern over the desecration of the protected animal. Perhilitan director Yusoff Shariff confirmed that a police report has been lodged, and Perhilitan will collaborate with law enforcement to track down those responsible for the theft of the tiger parts. "We are committed to working closely with the police to gather all possible information that will help us in our investigation," Yusoff said, as reported by Sinar Harian.
Under Malaysia's Wildlife Conservation Act, possession of any parts of a protected animal, such as a tiger, is considered a serious offense. Those found guilty could face a fine of up to RM1 million and imprisonment of up to 15 years. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of wildlife protection in Malaysia, where poaching and illegal trafficking of wildlife parts continue to pose significant threats to endangered species like the Malayan tiger.
Perhilitan has urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist the authorities in identifying the culprits involved in this incident. Authorities are also reminding the public of the legal consequences tied to the possession of protected animal parts and the need to protect Malaysia's endangered species.
The collision occurred as the lorry was traveling towards Gerik from Jeli, Kelantan. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities hoping to prevent further incidents and emphasize the importance of wildlife conservation efforts in the region.
Source: FMT
