ICA rescues 21 puppies found hidden in a car at Woodlands Checkpoint

SINGAPORE: A 27—year—old Singaporean has been referred to the Agri—food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) for investigations after 21 puppies were found hidden in the spare tyre compartment of his car.

In a statement, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said the male driver appeared visibly nervous when his vehicle pulled up for arrival clearance at the Woodlands Checkpoint on November 20 at 11.45am.

Sensing something amiss, ICA officers lifted the cover of the spare tyre compartment and found the puppies — 14 pomeranians and 7 pugs — sedated, and lying side by side.

The puppies are currently under observation at AVA’s Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station.

The ICA and AVA remind travellers against bringing live animals, birds and insects into Singapore without a proper permit.

It said animals that are smuggled into Singapore are of unknown health status. In the case of dogs and cats, the foremost concern is the risk of rabies, a fatal viral disease, which can be transmitted to human beings by the bite of a rabid animal.

Anyone who imports an animal without a licence is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both.

— CNA/de