FOLLOWING the ban on horse-riding activity on Batu Ferringhi beach, effective from Sept 1 as announced by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), an operation codenamed ‘Ops Trojan’ was carried out at the popular tourism belt this morning.
During the operation, local authorities seized two horses, which were taken to the Veterinary Department at Jalan Sungai. The illegal horse shed, located on state land, was also demolished.
MBPP enforcement director Noorazrein Noorazlan Ong, who was present during the operation, told reporters that the local council was acting on public complaints.
“We come here together with the police, and state Veterinary Department to proceed with the necessary action. The dismantling of the illegal shed is carried out under Section 81 (e) of the Local Government Act 1976.
“During our inspection, we found that the unsanitary conditions had caused pollution in the nearby river.
“The seized horses were taken to the state Veterinary Department in Jalan Sungai for treatment due to injuries they had sustained,” he said.
Noorazrein noted the illegal shed had been in place for about a year, and that the horses had been sourced from the Turf Club.
“We understand there are about four such illegal sheds at the tourism belt, operated by hired foreign workers,” he said.
Noorazrein mentioned that a notice had been issued to the owner, instructing them to demolish the illegal shed. However, no action was taken, prompting MBPP to proceed with strict enforcement.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud