Singapore authorities seize 101 illegal wildlife specimens in nationwide raid

In a large-scale operation, NParks conducted simultaneous raids on six Singaporean homes, seizing 101 non-native wildlife species such as newts, lizards, pythons, tarantulas and turtles, many of which are protected under CITES. Thirteen of the animals were found dead, and a leopard gecko was euthanised on animal-welfare grounds after being discovered with a ruptured, infected eye. The other 87 creatures have been moved to the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation, where they will be quarantined and assessed for possible return to their native habitats or donation to zoos, with euthanasia as a last resort.

Six people are being investigated for illegal sale and possession, though NParks has not confirmed any links between the cases. Joshua Teoh, NParks’ Director of Enforcement and Investigation, warned that the illegal trade threatens endangered species, public health, and local biodiversity, emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance and the need for public education. Offenders could face fines up to S$100,000 per CITES specimen and imprisonment of up to six years.