SINGAPORE: A man who was seen killing a snake in a video in April has been fined by the National Parks Board (NParks).
“The National Parks Board investigated a case involving a man killing a python at Boon Lay Place in April 2023, and imposed a composition fine of S$1,000 (US$737) against the man for killing the snake,” NParks group director for wildlife management Ryan Lee said in response to a CNA query on Thursday (Nov 9).
Footage of a group of men attacking and killing the snake at Boon Lay Place Market was posted on social media by the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) on Apr 18.
In the footage, the men are seen hitting the reticulated python outside the market with crates and pails. They are also seen kicking the reptile and grabbing it by its tail to drag it along.
After bringing the python into the market, one of the men uses a cleaver to chop at its head, killing the creature.
The men can be heard laughing throughout the video, which ACRES said was a screen recording sent by a concerned member of the public.
Mr Lee said that members of the public who encounter snakes in public areas and require assistance should call its 24-hour Animal Response Centre at 1800 476 1600.
“They should observe (the snake) from a safe distance, stay calm and back away, giving it space to retreat. Do not approach or attempt to handle the snake,” he said.
“Any pets should also be kept on a tight leash for their safety.”
Mr Lee added that snakes are generally shy creatures that will usually slither away from humans.
“They may try to defend themselves if they feel cornered or threatened and should be left alone,” he said.
More information on Singapore’s snakes can be found on the NParks website.
Under the Wildlife Act, first-time offenders caught killing wildlife without the approval of NParks’ director-general of wildlife management face a fine of up to S$10,000, up to six months in prison, or both.
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