Concerns have been raised in Lautoka regarding reports of community dogs and pets being captured for pig hunting, an act that has been deemed both illegal and inhumane. Local resident Mohammed Khan took to social media to alert the public after witnessing groups of men, allegedly from Navosa and Sigatoka, roaming through various neighborhoods, including Rifle Range, Vomo Street, Sukunivalu Road, and Natabua, capturing dogs.
Khan revealed that he received alarming calls, one from the Lautoka City Council new market where men were seen transporting dogs in sacks, and another incident along Sukunivalu Road. He confronted two groups, one on Vomo Street and another near his residence, who confessed to having engaged in this practice over the last few days while awaiting a carrier van to transport the dogs. During the confrontation, Khan witnessed a heavily pregnant dog being dragged, along with a mother and daughter pair.
Khan expressed his urgency in halting these actions and told others to intervene if they witnessed similar activities. He advised the public to report any suspicious behavior to the nearest police station or animal shelter and to take photos of the perpetrators to document the illegal actions. Despite his efforts—including following one group to Field 40 and notifying authorities—he noted a lack of police response, allowing the group to evade capture.
This troubling situation highlights the need for community vigilance and cooperation in protecting local wildlife. The collective effort in reporting and deterring these acts can foster a safer environment for both pets and residents, ensuring that compassion prevails over cruelty.
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