Tensions flared in Navelim as locals staged a protest march to the Margao police station, demanding immediate and strict action against a youth accused of shooting a pet dog with an airgun in the Bellem area.
The incident, which has sparked widespread anger among residents and animal rights activists, allegedly occurred when Jovito Fernandes, a 20-year-old resident of Navelim, fired four airgun pellets at his neighbour’s pet dog, belonging to Valentina Vieira. The attack took place in an open field, and three pellets reportedly struck the dog—in the stomach and head—causing serious injuries.
The disturbing act was caught on CCTV camera, providing critical evidence in the case. Based on the footage and a complaint filed by the dog’s owner, backed by the District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), an FIR has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
The injured dog was promptly rushed to a veterinary facility, where it is currently undergoing treatment. In the aftermath, members of the Vieira family, joined by local residents and animal welfare groups, gathered at the police station demanding the immediate arrest of the accused and strict legal consequences.
Police officials have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that they are awaiting a detailed medical report on the dog’s condition before moving ahead with further action. As of now, no arrests have been made.
The case has reignited concerns about rising incidents of animal cruelty in Goa and sparked renewed calls for the strict enforcement of animal protection laws.