21st August 2024 – (Hong Kong) Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island has suspended an employee suspected of violating the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, following allegations of dog abandonment. The monastery has also pledged to fully cooperate with the police investigation.
The monastery issued a statement on its social media page late Tuesday, confirming the employee’s suspension and stating that they are not permitted to return to the premises. The statement also outlined the monastery’s efforts to locate the two missing dogs, including deploying staff to search for them, posting notices in prominent locations, and reaching out to local residents for assistance.
The monastery expressed gratitude to those who have volunteered to assist in the search efforts, urging them to prioritize their safety. The monastery has refrained from further comment while the police investigation is ongoing, promising to provide an update once the investigation is complete.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with animal welfare advocates calling for justice for the missing dogs. Following a HK$100,000 reward offered by animal rescue organisation founder KENT, former actress and lawyer Mary Jean Reimer announced on her YouTube channel that she and her husband, would also offer a HK$100,000 reward for the dogs’ safe return.