MUMBAI: The mystery serial animal killer has been arrested by the RCF police in connection with the killing of several cats—and possibly dogs—in Maharashtra’s Panjrapol area of Chembur.

The accused, currently known only by his first name, Shiva, is a homeless person who roamed around the Panjrapol area of Chembur. Police arrested Shiva after checking CCTV footage from Kamawadi, Panjrapol and Shani Mandir areas. During questioning, he allegedly confessed to killing more than six cats. Local residents also suspect that some stray dogs in the vicinity may have been targeted, though the exact number of dogs affected is yet to be confirmed.

At least 20 cats, including kittens, were reportedly killed in the area since mid‑August. In addition, multiple stray dogs in the neighbourhood have been found injured or missing over the same period, raising concerns among animal lovers that the killings may not have been limited to felines. PETA India had earlier announced a cash reward of Rs 50,000 for anyone who provides information about the serial cat killer or killers; animal welfare groups are now urging authorities to also investigate any harm caused to dogs in the area.

Recently, local cat feeder Rubina Pathan found six cats brutally killed with a sharp weapon in a single night. Following this, an FIR was registered at RCF police station under Section 325 of the BNS and relevant sections of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Activists are demanding that the probe explicitly include all stray animals—cats and dogs alike—and that any evidence of dog killings be added to the case.

Further inquiry is underway to ascertain why Shiva allegedly committed the animal cruelty and whether he is mentally unsound. Police have said they will examine complaints from residents about missing or injured dogs as part of the broader investigation.