Channel NewsAsia 4 Dec 09;
SINGAPORE: The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers thwarted an attempt to bring in 60 live birds without a permit at the Woodlands Checkpoint on Thursday night.
The birds were packed in plastic containers and paper boxes, and hidden under the floor mats and seats of a Singapore-registered car.
The officers sensed something amiss when they heard flapping sounds from under the floor mats.
A total of 40 live red-whiskered bulbul birds, also known as Jambul birds and 20 live Magpies were discovered.
The 40-year-old Singaporean driver, claimed ownership of the birds. He said he had bought the birds for himself from a pet shop in Johor.
The case was referred to the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) for further investigations.
The import of live birds without an AVA permit is a violation of the Animals and Birds Act. It carries a maximum penalty of S$10,000 and imprisonment of up to one year.
- CNA/sc
