Individual surrenders dangerous 'serval cat' to Dubai Police

In an ongoing effort to raise environmental awareness about the keeping of dangerous animals, the Environmental Crimes and Antiquities Section of the General Department of Criminal Investigation at Dubai Police received a serval cat from a member of the public.

The individual surrendered the cat after realising the legal and environmental risks associated with owning this type of wild animal. Dubai Police then transferred custody of the cat to Dubai Municipality, which began the necessary procedures.

Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Khalifa Al Mazina Al Muhairi, Head of the Environmental Crimes and Antiquities Section, stated that the section's security and awareness efforts, undertaken under the 'Safe Hand' initiative regarding the possession of dangerous animals without a licence, had resulted in a positive response from an individual who had cooperated in surrendering the serval cat.

This animal is classified as dangerous and its possession is prohibited without a licence from the relevant authorities. The individual realised the consequences of keeping the cat and that they could surrender it without facing legal repercussions.

Lieutenant Colonel Al Mazina praised the individual for his cooperation, noting that this behaviour reflects the success of security awareness campaigns that educate the public about environmental legislation, the dangers of possessing dangerous animals and the penalties resulting from the trade of dangerous or prohibited species, as set out in Federal Law No. (22) of 2016 regarding the regulation of the possession of dangerous animals. These campaigns also provide safe and confidential communication channels for voluntarily handing over animals and for public inquiries, in accordance with the established procedures.

Adel Abdullah Al Karani, Director of Public Health Services at Dubai Municipality and strategic partner of the 'Safe Hand' initiative, affirmed that the initiative reflects growing community awareness of the importance of adhering to wildlife protection laws and preventing the trade or possession of predatory animals without a permit.

He pointed out that the cat handed over is a dangerous species that could threaten the environment and public health if kept in a residential setting.

He added that the animal had been transferred to a specialised centre affiliated with Dubai Municipality, where its health would be monitored and its well-being ensured in accordance with animal welfare standards, while the necessary environmental measures were also taken.