Recent stories that authorities are recommending individuals to damage property in an effort to free an animal in danger, have spread like wild fire on social media. Rumours are based on false claims like this one, that if someone sees a dog locked in a car on a hot day, you have to take a picture of the animal and the vehicle and then break the glass to release the suffering pet. The false story continues that, to avoid punishment, you must take a photo first, to prove that it was essential, before breaking the window to allow the dog to escape.
“Only in this way will you avoid being punished by the police according to art.54 of the Penal Code, in these cases the state of necessity is recognized,” says one false statement.
The National Police has decided to clarify the matter due to widespread lies being promoted, saying that it is a complete hoax: “Trust in messages only from official sources and use common sense. If you see an animal locked up and in a dangerous situation, then contact 091”.
