Police have launched an investigation in Hatay after a dog was taken from the courtyard of his owner’s home and later found dead, hanging from an electricity pole nearby.
The incident happened in the 408 Evler neighbourhood of Kırıkhan. According to reports, the Belgian Shepherd was tethered in the courtyard of a home when an unidentified person or persons removed him and took him away.
When the owner realised the dog was missing the following morning, they began searching the surrounding area. The dog was then discovered hanging from an electricity pole close to the property.
The incident was reported to Türkiye’s 112 Emergency Call Centre and police officers and a veterinarian were sent to the scene. The dog was confirmed dead. Initial reports alleged that the dog had been killed before his body was hung from the pole, although the precise circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation.
Police have begun work to identify and locate the person or people responsible.
The case is another deeply disturbing example of violence towards animals in Türkiye. Whatever the circumstances behind an individual case, deliberately taking an animal from his home and subjecting him to violence cannot be dismissed as an isolated animal welfare issue. Cases of extreme cruelty require proper investigation, accountability and penalties capable of acting as a genuine deterrent.
Dog Desk Animal Action will follow the investigation for any further information regarding the circumstances of the dog’s death and whether those responsible are identified.