Four dogs were destroyed by police following a complaint of a pack of seven reportedly behaving menacingly.

Cook Islands Police spokesperson Trevor Pitt confirmed the action in response to a query from Cook Islands News.

“The dog complaints are being handled by the respective team on duty,” said Pitt.

“There was one complaint this week about a group of seven being menacing. I believe four were identified to be destroyed. I don’t have any stats as we have no staff to collate in the Police Intel division.”

Pitt emphasised the lack of staff as a major hurdle in managing such incidents effectively. This limitation leaves the police unable to maintain records or provide detailed updates on similar cases.

Dog-related incidents have been a growing concern in the Cook Islands. In September, a series of attacks drew attention to the issue, including incidents where students were chased by dogs while cycling to school, leading to injuries and damaged bicycles.

One alarming case involved a student from Apii Te Uki Ou who fell from his bike during an attack in Matavera.

The school described the incident as “very concerning,” adding that students were increasingly fearful during their commutes.

Tourists have also been victims. Jessie Banks recounted how her partner was bitten by a dog while they were riding a scooter near the Lazy Trout Cafe. Another tourist, Ala Flamma, described being surrounded by growling dogs while walking in Muri. Both incidents were shared widely on social media, prompting calls for dog owners to take responsibility.

With ongoing issues of understaffing, the Cook Islands Police Service faces significant challenges in addressing complaints and ensuring public safety.

Pitt confirmed earlier this year that the force is short by 30–40 officers. Recruitment has stalled for two years, and existing staff numbers continue to dwindle due to low remuneration and an outdated organisational structure.

Prime Minister Mark Brown, who also serves as Minister for Police, launched a review of the Police Service to address its shortcomings.

However, in the interim, police resources remain stretched, and incidents like dog attacks highlight the strain.

Without adequate staff to collect data or respond comprehensively to complaints, concerns about public safety persist. As one community member put it: “The issue of dog attacks may just be the tip of the iceberg in a police service struggling to meet its basic obligations.”