A man who was filmed viciously whipping a horse in Swatar on Sunday has been taken to court and accused of animal cruelty.

Alban Saliba, 36, of Birkirkara was identified and arrested yesterday after footage of the beating went viral. He pleaded not guilty and was grated bail.

Veterinary Service officials made two inspections of his stables in Birkirkara and examined the six horses he owns.

Police Inspector Herman Mula said the stables appeared to be well kept, although somewhat crammed. 

Bail was granted against a deposit of €500 deposit and a guarantee of €1,000. The court ordered a medical examination of the horses.

Meanwhile, the Animal Rights Coalition said in a statement that it was concerned about the seemingly ever increasing incidents of animal abuse.

It reiterated its calls for horses and carts to be clearly identified by a number plate similar to that used by cars. It also called for proportionate punishment when persons were convicted.  

People guilty of cruelty should also have their animals confiscated and should also have a lifetime ban from ever keeping another animals again, the coalition said. 

In another statement, the Malta Society for the Protection and Care of Animals hoped that laws would be enforced in justice with innocent animals.