Story perspectives

Ombudsman Urges Stronger Action Against Rising Animal Cruelty

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Hong Kong Ombudsman Jack Chan Jick-chi called for empowering conservation officers to enter homes to investigate animal cruelty, saying procedures are ineffective.
Chan cited systemic issues within the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and urged tougher penalties against illegal animal traps that lack deterrents.
The ombudsman said 3,000 submissions reflect strong public concern.
Suspected animal cruelty reports nearly doubled, from 215 in 2020 to 423 in 2024.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Hong Kong Ombudsman Jack Chan Jick-chi called for empowering conservation officers to enter homes to investigate animal cruelty, saying procedures are ineffective.
Chan cited systemic issues within the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and urged tougher penalties against illegal animal traps that lack deterrents.
The ombudsman said 3,000 submissions reflect strong public concern.
Suspected animal cruelty reports nearly doubled, from 215 in 2020 to 423 in 2024.