Update: 4/1/26

Victoria Police have arrested a 67-year-old man in Warrnambool, Australia, in connection with the alleged dragging of a koala in nearby Koroit, following an investigation by Victoria’s Conservation Regulator.

Authorities allege that a vehicle was used to drag a koala along a roadway in Koroit. Witnesses reported that the animal may have had a rope tied around its neck. The incident is believed to have been observed by multiple people in the community.

The incident reportedly occurred around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, as the vehicle traveled along King Street. The koala was left with life-threatening injuries at Victoria Park, where it was later found by a member of the public and assessed by a veterinarian from Mosswood Wildlife.

Due to the severity of its injuries, the koala was sadly euthanized.

Barwon South West Manager of Regulatory Operations Glenn Sharp stated: “These allegations describe a distressing and senseless act of wildlife cruelty.”

All wildlife in Victoria is protected by law. It is illegal to harm wildlife under the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. Aggravated animal cruelty carries a maximum penalty of up to $101,000 and two years’ imprisonment. Koalas are among the protected species covered under these laws.

The suspect has since been released and is expected to face charges by summons.

The Conservation Regulator continues to work alongside Victoria Police as the investigation progresses, and authorities say the case remains a key focus.

“We’re treating this investigation as a priority and are asking for anyone with information about this incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam or security vision that may assist the investigation,” Sharp stated.

Information can be provided anonymously, and reports can also be submitted online at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Justice will prevail!

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The town of Koroit, Victoria, is in shock after a koala was allegedly tied to a tow ball and dragged through the center of town, leaving the animal critically injured. The koala was later euthanized due to the severity of its injuries.

According to reports, the koala was tied to a rope and dragged along King Street before being abandoned in Victoria Park, where volunteers from Mosswood Wildlife found the animal. Despite efforts by the organization’s veterinary team, the koala could not be saved.

Mosswood Wildlife described the incident as:

“A harrowing thing to witness, let alone the unfathomable pain endured by this poor koala in such a brazen attack.”

Authorities are investigating, and community members are calling for swift legal action. Many have expressed their anger online, highlighting the ongoing need for stronger protections for wildlife in Australia.

The attack has also drawn condemnation from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW):

“This is a horrific and senseless act of cruelty. It is beyond belief that someone would do this to any animal, let alone an iconic koala,” stated Josey Sharrad, IFAW Oceania Head of Programs.

Koalas are under severe pressure from habitat loss, disease, and a shifting climate, with fewer than 80,000 remaining in the wild. Attacks like this not only harm individual animals but also threaten vulnerable populations. Conservation groups stress the need for community vigilance, legal protections, and habitat preservation to prevent similar tragedies.

Peace 4 Animals said in a statement:

“We are horrified by this blatant act of cruelty. Every animal deserves to be treated with compassion and respect, and we urge authorities to take swift and decisive action to hold those responsible accountable. This incident highlights the urgent need for stronger legal protections and proactive measures to safeguard wildlife across Australia.”

A suspect has been identified by police, but no arrest or charges have been confirmed yet. Justice must be served!