A disturbing wave of cat killings and attacks across Malta has sparked outrage among residents and animal welfare advocates, with calls growing louder for the public to assist in identifying the person, or persons, responsible.
Animal activist Romina Frendo, a member of the Real Animal Rights Foundation (RAR Malta), is urging residents to share any CCTV footage that may help identify the attacker. Despite growing fear among residents, Frendo reassured that footage can be submitted anonymously to protect the sender’s privacy.
RAR Malta is offering a €4,000 reward to anyone who provides information that leads to the identification and arraignment of the individual believed to be behind several gruesome acts of animal cruelty. Frendo revealed that many of the killings appear to follow a similar pattern and are likely linked.
The first known incident was reported on 7th June, when a cat was discovered dead in Sliema. Just two days later, on 9th June, a beloved cat known by locals and tourists alike, was found brutally killed in Cuschieri Street, Gżira, slammed repeatedly against walls, floors, and even cars.
In the early hours of 11th June, another attack occurred in Sliema. The cat was reportedly snatched in Our Saviour Street, slammed to the ground in nearby St Charles Street, and left mutilated and dying.
Further reports include:
- Valletta: Three dead cats found in Evans Building and fast ferry areas.
- Bieb il-Bombi: A cat found mutilated but survived.
- Bormla: At least three incidents on Triq Polverista.
- Ta’ Xbiex: Unconfirmed cases under review.
There have also been reports of attempted cat kidnappings from a vehicle described as an old silver or grey car, with suspects allegedly of Asian appearance, according to eyewitnesses.
Residents from affected areas, including Sliema, Gżira, and Valletta, have filed police reports and are working with the Animal Welfare Department. Sliema Police have been actively patrolling the area and are encouraging anyone who sees or hears suspicious activity to contact 112 and request Sliema Police Station.
Frendo and RAR Malta are pleading with residents, particularly those around Rudolph, Viani, Belvedere, and Cuschieri Streets in Gżira, as well as St Charles, St James, Our Saviour, and Alfons Streets in Sliema, to check their surveillance footage, especially between 3a.m. and 4a.m. on 11th June.
Information can be passed directly and confidentially to Romina Frendo at 77550550, or to the Sliema Police Station.
“This is not just about justice for the cats – it’s about stopping a pattern of cruelty before it escalates further,” Frendo said.
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