Car with 6 hidden puppies detected at Woodlands Checkpoint

The puppies were uncovered in a modified compartment underneath the rear passenger seat of the Malaysia-registered car. The 43-year-old Malaysian male driver is assisting AVA with the investigation.
Channel NewsAsia 21 May 16;

SINGAPORE: The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) said on Saturday (May 21) that six live puppies were intercepted at the Woodlands Checkpoint on Thursday night.

A Malaysia-registered car, driven by a 43-year-old Malaysian male, was directed for further checks at the Woodlands Checkpoint at about 11.15pm on Thursday. During the inspection, six live puppies were found hidden in a modified compartment underneath the rear passenger seat, according to the joint press release.

The driver, the puppies and the vehicle were referred to the AVA, with the driver assisting with the investigations, they added.

While the case is under AVA’s investigation, the six puppies are cared for and quarantined at AVA’s Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station for observation for signs of infectious or contagious diseases, especially rabies – a disease fatal to animals and humans, the press release said.

Animals that are smuggled into Singapore are of unknown health status and may introduce exotic diseases, such as rabies, into the country. The importation of any animals or live birds without an AVA permit is illegal and carries a maximum penalty of S$10,000 and/or jail of up to a year.