Full Breakdown
Investigation into Suspected Animal Cruelty in Lok Ma Chau
2/20/2026, 10:57:40 PM
Discovery of Dead Dogs
Hong Kong police are currently investigating a suspected case of animal cruelty after four dogs were found dead in the Lok Ma Chau area. The discovery occurred over a span of four days, beginning on February 16, 2026, when a female resident reported a dead dog on Liu Pok Road, suspecting poisoning. Subsequent reports led to the discovery of three additional dog carcasses, all of which were mongrels with no visible injuries. Police believe these incidents are interconnected, and all carcasses have been sent to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for autopsy and toxicology tests. As of now, no arrests have been made.
Background and Context
The Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation, an animal welfare group, has been actively monitoring the situation. Narelle Pamuk, the chairperson of the foundation, reported that the group had noticed 13 dogs missing from the area, including a dog named BLui, who was found dead shortly after being seen alive. Pamuk expressed her distress over the situation, emphasizing that the dogs were healthy, desexed, and vaccinated, all aged 3.5 years or younger.
Broader Implications of Animal Poisoning
This incident is part of a larger pattern of suspected poisonings affecting local canines. The Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation has documented at least 19 similar cases in the area since the previous year, indicating a troubling trend of lethal poison baits being placed on farms in regions like Kwu Tung and Lok Ma Chau. Pamuk described the situation as “heartbreaking,” highlighting the emotional toll on volunteers who care for these animals.
Official Statements & Responses
The Hong Kong police have stated that they are treating the cases seriously and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Narelle Pamuk has voiced her devastation over the incidents, stating, “No animal deserves to die from poisoning … It’s certainly not a happy new year for myself or my volunteers who dearly love these dogs on the border.”
Criticism & Opposition
Animal welfare advocates have criticized the ongoing issue of animal poisonings in the region, calling for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect stray dogs. Pamuk's comments reflect a broader concern within the community regarding the safety of animals in areas where poison baits are suspected to be used.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the police have confirmed the discovery of four dead dogs, the Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation has indicated that at least one additional dog is missing, suggesting a potential discrepancy in the reported number of affected animals. The exact nature of the poison and the motivations behind its use remain unclear, highlighting a gap in information that the ongoing investigation aims to address.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What rotten human/s could do this? The dogs were healthy, desexed, vaccinated dogs aged 3.5 years and younger,” — Narelle Pamuk, Chairperson, Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation
- “It’s heartbreaking, it’s dreadful, so bad. I just can’t get over it.” — Narelle Pamuk, Chairperson, Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation
This investigation underscores the urgent need for community awareness and action to prevent further incidents of animal cruelty in Hong Kong.
