A tragic accident along Malaysia’s East-West Highway took the life of a critically endangered Malayan tiger, which was struck and killed by a truck. Adding to the heartbreak, authorities discovered that parts of the tiger’s body were stolen, sparking public outcry and an official investigation.
The tiger was hit early on November 9, 2024, near the Titiwangsa Rest and Recreation (R&R) area on a stretch of highway that runs through dense jungle habitat. Malaysia’s Wildlife and National Parks Department, known as Perhilitan, reported the incident after a call came in at around 9 a.m.
Highways Threaten Wildlife Safety
According to NST, Perhilitan Director Yusoff Shariff stated that the tiger was struck around 5:30 a.m. along the East-West Highway’s Gerik-Jeli route, at kilometer 67.1. The impact was so severe that it left the carcass in multiple pieces, making it difficult to determine the animal’s sex or exact weight.
“The carcass is in pieces, so we haven’t been able to tell if it was male or female,” Yusoff said. He also noted the tiger was likely an adult, but its identity remains unclear due to the damage.
Videos shared online showed the tiger’s head intact, but much of the body was mutilated, with portions of its skin missing. Authorities believe the tiger may have come from the nearby Temenggor or Royal Belum Forest Reserves.
Investigation Launched as Stolen Tiger Remains Discovered
In a disturbing twist, authorities later confirmed that parts of the tiger’s body, including its claws, fangs, skin, and tail, had been taken by poachers.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad stated that the truck driver involved has been identified, but it’s suspected others were involved in the theft. Law enforcement is actively investigating to track down those responsible for taking the tiger’s remains.
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Public Cooperation
According to Berita Harian, police are pursuing leads to locate the individuals responsible for the theft. Yusoff Shariff emphasized that the investigation is being treated as a priority, with Perhilitan working closely with law enforcement.
Yusoff urged anyone who may have these stolen parts to return them immediately, noting that those found in possession could face severe legal penalties. Malaysia’s Wildlife Conservation Act imposes fines of up to RM1 million (301,655 SGD) or prison terms of up to 15 years for offenses involving protected species.
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