DR ‹ › A disturbing incident has sparked widespread outrage in Nador, where dozens of cats were found poisoned and killed near a local market. The act has drawn strong condemnation from animal welfare groups and civil society organizations, which have described it as a serious crime requiring urgent investigation and accountability. Photos and videos showing numerous dead cats around the market area have been widely shared by activists on social media, further fueling public anger and concern. The Nador-based National Association for Animal Defense and Environmental Protection issued a strongly worded statement denouncing the incident as a «disgraceful criminal act». The association said that poisoning animals constitutes not only a «blatant violation of the law» but also a grave breach of «the values of compassion and humanity». It warned that such practices pose a direct threat to public health, environmental balance, and the safety of local residents. The organization stressed that these acts are punishable under the law, particularly due to the use of banned toxic substances that endanger citizens, especially children, as well as the wider environment. Calling for action, the association urged the relevant authorities to launch an immediate and thorough investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible, and to enforce legal measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. It also held local and elected officials responsible for fulfilling their legal and ethical obligations to protect animals and safeguard the environment. The group advocated for scientific and humane approaches to managing stray animals, including sterilization, vaccination, and veterinary monitoring programs, rather than «reckless and dangerous» practices that threaten public safety and damage the city's image.
