Individuals who labelled 24-year-old Muhammad Shah Idham Nor Haikal Shaharom as “cruel” or a “dog killer” are being urged to apologise, after his lawyer said the posts had allegedly led to threats against his client.
Speaking to reporters outside the Klang Court Complex on Thursday (20 August), Shah’s lawyer Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali said his team had identified several individuals, including influencers, who allegedly made humiliating posts about the young man.
Individuals who accused Shah include politicians
According to Rafique, the charge against Shah does not state that he killed, tortured or severely beat the dog until it died.
“Based on the charge read in court, it clearly does not state the words ‘killed’, ‘tortured’ or ‘beaten severely until it caused death’,” he said.
Rafique said his team is currently looking into the various statements made against Shah, adding that those involved came from different walks of life, including individuals who had served in Parliament and are still serving.
When asked whether those who apologise would be spared from possible legal action, Rafique said it would depend on the nature of the apology. He explained that the statements made about Shah could have consequences beyond those who posted them, particularly because they allegedly affected Shah, his family, friends, and nearby residents’ safety.
He further clarified that Shah was not an employee of any government department or the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK), but had been acting as a volunteer.
Rafique and shah
The charges against Shah and Roghini
Shah and S. Roghini Devi, 42, said to be Rocky’s owner, previously pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court over the incident. Shah is accused of unreasonably restraining the male dog using a looped leash, allegedly causing pain to the animal.
Roghini is separately accused of unreasonably pulling Rocky, and both were charged under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, punishable under Section 29(1) of the same Act. Additionally, Roghini was charged with keeping Rocky without a license, to which she also pleaded not guilty.
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Also read: Rocky Court Case: Dog Owner & Dog Catcher Accused of Animal Cruelty, Both Plead Not Guilty
