Baling police chief Azmi Mokhtar said the extent of the victims’ injuries remains unknown but no police report had been lodged as they were receiving treatment at Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital, Sungai Petani.

“Police received a call at 5.45am about two dogs roaming the area and attacking several individuals. Officers were dispatched to the scene to contain the situation and speak with the dogs’ owner.

“The 69-year-old owner later confined the dogs but was instructed to surrender them to the Kulim veterinary office for examination and immediate quarantine,” he said, in a statement today.

Earlier, a viral social media post showed several individuals receiving treatment and being transported by ambulance, after they were injured following an attack by two black dogs, believed to be Rottweilers.

Baling district officer Yazlan Sunardie Che Yahya confirmed that a complaint was made about the incident.

“It was reported that several individuals were injured, but the severity remains unclear. However, based on the viral images, the injuries appear quite serious.

“Since this is a recurring dog attack case, I have requested the veterinary office to conduct an investigation, and take appropriate action against the owner,” he told Bernama.

He said local authorities are allowed to capture strays or unlicensed dogs but not in this case as the dogs were domesticated and displaying aggressive behaviour.

“I was informed that the dogs are usually kept at the business premises but were housed at the owner’s residence (due to the festive holidays). They reportedly escaped from their cage before attacking the victims,” he added.

Yazlan Sunardie said he would discuss with the owner whether the dogs should be placed in an animal shelter or, if deemed dangerous, euthanised.

“Any action taken must follow the relevant guidelines and laws,” he said.