VIRAL
Dogs that escape immediate death on the streets are often captured and taken to overcrowded, underfunded municipal shelters, where they face further mistreatment, including poisoning.
The Moroccan monarchy is reportedly attempting to make a favorable impression on the international football association FIFA by removing stray dogs from the streets, leading to allegations of mass killing of 3 million (30 lakh) dogs. Witnesses describe hearing loud gunshots followed by the istressing sounds of injured and dying dogs. Those that survive the shootings are reportedly beaten to death with shovels by local officials.
FIFA officials have stated that they are "thoroughly investigating" the bid for the World Cup and are conducting site visits in Morocco, where matches may take place. However, prior to their arrival, local authorities have initiated a campaign against street dogs, resulting in reports of poisoning, shootings, and beatings.
Dogs that escape immediate death on the streets are often captured and taken to overcrowded, underfunded municipal shelters, where they face further mistreatment, including poisoning. Reports indicate that animals are crammed into small spaces, sprayed with water, and subjected to electrocution in these facilities.
Meanwhile, the International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition warns that up to 3 million dogs could be killed in the lead-up to the 2030 FIFA World Cup if these actions are not halted immediately.
Moroccan laws prohibit the culling of street dogs; however, authorities continue to carry out killings while police remain unresponsive to the situation.
Organisations working in Morocco for years to support animal welfare initiatives, including effective trap-neuter-vaccinate-release (TNVR) programs, are now facing challenges. With death squads actively killing dogs on the streets, shelter workers are afraid to release animals back into the community. As a result, dogs are being kept in increasingly overcrowded shelters for their safety.
Funds are depleting, but there is an urgent need for more food and medical care to support the increasing number of dogs until the violence ceases. A goal of raising $15,000 (£12,000) has been set to provide food and care for 1,000 dogs for one month.
With community support, efforts will be made to care for as many dogs as possible while bringing this disturbing situation to light and urging authorities to put an end to the killings.