Animal welfare organisation Animals Fiji is seeking the public’s assistance after receiving disturbing footage showing dogs being forcibly taken in Nadi Town.
The organisation said the video, which has since circulated online, shows individuals removing several dogs in a manner that raises serious concerns about animal welfare.
According to Animals Fiji, by the time the footage reached them the individuals involved had already left the area.
Animals Fiji warned that the footage may be distressing to watch but said it was shared to highlight concerns about how dogs in communities are being handled.
The organisation noted that the increasing number of free-roaming dogs in Fiji is largely the result of abandonment, uncontrolled breeding and pets being allowed to roam.
It said such situations can lead to animals being removed from public spaces in ways that may be distressing to both the animals and the public.
Animals Fiji is urging anyone who recognises the individuals in the footage to report the information directly to the Fiji Police Force.
Members of the public can also send information privately to Animals Fiji, which will forward it to relevant authorities including the Nadi Town Council and the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry.
Animals Fiji stressed that responsible pet ownership and community cooperation are key to addressing the issue of stray dogs.
The public is encouraged to desex pets, keep dogs safely contained, avoid abandoning animals, and report suspected cruelty or suspicious activity to authorities.
