SHILLONG, June 24: Police investigations into the suspected poisoning of stray and community animals in Shillong’s Laban area continued on Wednesday but no arrests have been made yet.
Meanwhile, efforts to gather evidence are expected to intensify. Animal welfare activist, Viveca Blah confirmed that they will visit the Circuit House on Thursday along with Inspector Khan, who has recently taken charge of the investigation, to seek access to CCTV footage that could help identify those responsible.
“If necessary, we will pursue the information through the proper legal channels,” she said.
Investigators and activists believe CCTV footage from recent days may prove crucial in establishing whether individuals had been frequenting the area and interacting with local dogs before the suspected poisoning occurred.Animal welfare groups have raised concerns that the perpetrator or perpetrators may have gained the animals’ trust before carrying out the act.
Police have already collected samples of suspected poisoned food and a bird carcass from the site for forensic examination. However, no arrests have been made so far, and authorities have yet to identify any suspects.
In a positive development, animal welfare activists expressed cautious optimism after the lone surviving dog showed signs of improvement. The dog, which was found in a critical condition following the incident, responded positively to treatment on Wednesday. Activists caring for the animal said the development has provided a glimmer of hope amid an otherwise distressing case.
The surviving dog remains under care and observation. Earlier veterinary assessments indicated possible liver damage, prompting recommendations for more advanced diagnostic testing.
The animal is currently being cared for at Malki by Viveca Blah, founder of God’s Creatures Foundation, with treatment costs being supported by volunteers and rescuers.
She thanked the East Khasi Hills police for their response to the case and expressed hope that the investigation will lead to the identification and prosecution of those responsible.
They also stressed that the incident is not solely an animal welfare issue but a matter of public safety. According to the activist, any toxic substance left in public areas could pose a serious risk to children and other residents.
“Children playing outside may unknowingly come into contact with poisoned food or other harmful substances. This is a concern for the entire community,” she added.
Animal welfare groups have vowed to continue pursuing justice for the affected animals while advocating for stronger safeguards to protect community animals across the city.
