Public Outrage and Protests Erupt in Chongqing After Man Accused of Killing Pets

Citizens in Chongqing, southwestern China, held protests after reports emerged that a man had been abusing and killing pets, including dogs, local media including Dazhong News reported on June 12.

According to reports, allegations were raised recently that a 39-year-old man, surnamed Li, had been adopting young cats and dogs for free over at least several months only to kill them.

As rumors spread online, netizens, volunteers, and the original owners of the victimized animals gathered at Li's residence on June 7 and 8. A puppy was discovered near the home in an unconscious state.

Examination results showed that the puppy’s teeth had been cut with a saw and its tail had been severed.

The animal was in critical condition, with fractures observed throughout its body.

Dazhong News reported that a large crowd gathered near Li's home on the evening of June 8, and police were deployed to maintain order at the scene.

The Chongqing Public Security Bureau arrested Li that day and launched an investigation. They discovered three dogs at his home and transferred them to a hospital and a shelter.

On June 10, the Public Security Bureau announced that Li had been placed under administrative detention—a measure for administrative violations that can lead to up to 15 days of custody—for using lies to obtain dogs and subsequently causing them death or injury.

Despite police intervention, public anger has not subsided.

Some citizens are demanding stricter punishment, arguing that the current penalty is too lenient.

According to Singapore’s Lianhe Zaobao, citizens remained near Li's home even after his arrest to express their grievances, leading to clashes with police at one point.

Videos circulating on Chinese social media show a young man being pinned to the ground by police officers during dispersal operations on June 9.

There are also reports that several citizens were taken into custody at the scene.

(Photo: Weibo capture, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.