Four people who helped catch a man who carried out a series of shocking attacks on cats in Sliema have been awarded a total of €5,000 for their part in bringing him to justice.
Sliema residents Victoria Mamo and Stefano Galdes, Gżira resident Isaac Caruana and Gabriel Micallef from Naxxar were presented with the reward Saturday.
The reward was presented by Real Animal Rights Foundation president Moira Delia, Sliema shop Mix Markt director Karina Zax and a company that wished to remain anonymous.
The four residents contributed CCTV footage or otherwise helped in the investigation, which led to the arrest of Japanese national Okamura Satoshi, the foundation said.
Satoshi, 31, was apprehended by police earlier this month following a spate of deadly attacks in Sliema that left cats dead, injured and mutilated.
One cat was discovered with its tail cut off, while another cat was found with part of its tongue missing; similar attacks were recorded in Valletta, Floriana, and Cospicua.
The attacks shocked the nation and triggered investigations by the police and Animal Welfare Department.
“Well done to all those who spoke up and helped in exposing the cat killer. This shows that when we raise our voices against cruelty, change happens,” said Delia in comments to Times of Malta.
“Let’s keep speaking out against all forms of violence — animals deserve protection.”
Appearing in court earlier this month, Satoshi pleaded guilty to charges related to harming and killing animals, as well as causing animals to suffer from unnecessary pain and suffering.
He was caught with latex gloves and packets of cat food – used to lure cats he attacked –on his person when apprehended by police on the streets of Sliema in the early hours of the morning.
His sentencing is due to take place next month.