Full Breakdown
Mumbai Serial Cat Killings Lead to Arrest and Ongoing Probe
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Incident
In the Panjrapole area of Chembur, East Mumbai, stray cats were found dead with severe head injuries and exposed organs. Caretaker Rubina Abdul Malik Pathan, who feeds the cats, reported the killings, with the total number ranging from six to “nearly 20” across outlets.
Timeline of Events
- September 3 – Pathan found four cats “killed very brutally” near a shelter she built under a bridge in Kamawadi.
- September 4 – Six more mutilated carcasses were discovered.
- September 5 – Two additional cats, an adult and a kitten, were found dead.
- September 9 – Pathan and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India filed an FIR at the RCF police station under Section 325 of the *Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita* and the *Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act* (PCA).
- Early October – Police reviewed CCTV from Kamawadi, Panjrapole and Shani Mandir and arrested Shiva Keshav Joshi, 40, of Panvel, who allegedly confessed to killing more than six cats.
Legal Action and Investigation
The case cites Sections 11(1)(a) and 11(1)(l) of the PCA, covering beating, kicking or mutilating an animal. Police continue to scan neighbourhood CCTV and question residents to determine if others are involved. The motive remains under investigation.
Official Statements & Responses
- DCP (East Zone) Sameer Shaikh confirmed the investigation is underway and officers are analysing footage.
- A police officer described the suspect as “a psychopath” and said the perpetrator would be apprehended.
- PETA India announced a cash reward of up to Rs 50,000 for information leading to the culprit’s identification, arrest and conviction.
Data & Statistics
- Reported cat deaths: four on Sept 3, six on Sept 4, two on Sept 5, and additional carcasses bringing the total to nearly 20.
- Legal provisions: Section 325 BNS and Sections 11(1)(a) & 11(1)(l) PCA.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the total number killed. *IndiaTimes* cites “nearly 20” cats, while *Hindustan Times* mentions six dead cats and later “at least 20” victims. The suspect’s motive is unverified, and no forensic report has been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Based on the woman’s complaint, we have registered a case under sections 11 (treating animals cruelly) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and section 325 (whoever commits mischief by killing, poisoning, maiming or rendering useless any animal) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita,” — police officer
*The investigation continues as Mumbai authorities and animal-rights groups seek to prevent further cruelty and bring the responsible individual to justice.*