Crossbow Attacks Kill Cats and Dogs in Remote Taitung Village; Police Identify Suspect

(Central News Agency reporter Lu Taicheng, Taitung County, 10th) In Jialan Village, Jinfeng Township, Taitung County, cats and dogs were shot and killed with crossbow bolts, which pierced through their abdomens. The incident has sparked discussion and surprise among the tribal community, as crossbows have not been used in the area for over 20 years. Police have seized the crossbow and arrows and have identified a suspect for investigation.

According to photos and videos provided by residents, a yellow dog was killed by a bolt piercing its abdomen, and a calico cat was also shot through the stomach, dying after running through a yard. Villagers in Jialan expressed shock, asking "Who could be so cruel?" and noting that "It's been over 20 years since we last saw a crossbow used in the tribe. Why is someone using one again?"

Jialan Village Chief Zhuang Fucheng told the media that the tribe had indeed used crossbows for hunting in the past, but no one has been seen using them for about 20 years. "You can't buy them anymore, and no one makes them. How can there still be arrows? The whole tribe finds it very strange," he said. He described crossbows as extremely dangerous weapons, stating that aside from hunting, they were never used to shoot domestic animals like cats, dogs, chickens, or ducks.

A villager surnamed Luo said seeing the cats and dogs shot through was "terrifying and very cruel," adding that nothing like this had ever happened before. He also expressed concern that the powerful crossbow could cause serious injury if it hit a person.

Another villager, surnamed Du, worried that "if it hits a person, not a dog, it would be a serious matter." He also noted that crossbows are highly dangerous because they make almost no sound when fired.

Police have seized the suspected crossbow and arrows and have identified a suspect for investigation. The Dawu Branch of the Taitung County Police Department stated that under the Animal Protection Act, intentionally injuring or abusing an animal to the point of death is punishable by up to two years in prison or detention, and a fine of between NT$200,000 and NT$2 million. (Editor: Wu Surou) 1150610