The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Hong Kong (SPCA) has signed a cooperation pact with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department to enforce the animal protection law.

SPCA inspectors will receive training on how to collect and process evidence against animal abuse, and both will step up patrols at locations about which there have been complaints.

The Legislative Council passed an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance last month, raising the maximum fine to HK$200,000 (US$25,600) and imprisonment up to three years. A man was jailed for eating dog meat under the amended law.

(Ta Kung Pao)