A man recently faced repercussions for his actions towards a python, resulting in a S$1,000 fine imposed by NParks. The incident, captured in a viral video that circulated in April, depicted the man using a cleaver to end the snake’s life after hitting it multiple times with buckets at Boon Lay Place Market, according to Channel NewsAsia.
The widely circulated video sparked public outrage, with viewers expressing shock and concern over the man’s actions. The incident prompted a swift response from NParks, drawing attention to the need for addressing such cases promptly.
Investigated
Following the public uproar, NParks launched an investigation into the incident. The outcome confirmed the man’s actions, leading to the imposition of a S$1,000 composition fine. NParks’ group director for wildlife management, Ryan Lee, affirmed the decision and highlighted the legal consequences of such actions.
In response to the incident, NParks has urged the public to report any similar situations to their Animal Response Centre. This emphasizes the importance of public participation in preserving wildlife and ensuring the proper handling of encounters with animals.
Contrary to public condemnation, the man involved asserted that his actions were driven by compassion. He claimed that the snake was in distress and pain, leading him to make the difficult decision to end its suffering by using a cleaver, according to 8World News.
Despite the man’s justification, NParks maintained a firm stance, emphasizing the legal consequences of taking matters into one’s own hands. The imposed fine serves as a deterrent and highlights the importance of adhering to established protocols when encountering wildlife.
Recap on the incident
In the video, the man was seen picking up a python that had wrapped itself around his ankle, unravelling the snake before hitting its head with a bucket.
The people who was watching and filming the incident could also be heard laughing at the scene and throwing more things at the snake.
The man who picked up the snake, was seen in another video being bitten by the snake on his forearm before trying to pick it up again, this time holding the snake by its head and bringing the reptile into the market.
He then used a chopper to hack at the snake’s head, killing it.
ACRES’ statement on Facebook
APPEAL FOR EYE WITNESS: GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING
On 18th April 2023, 11:25pm, ACRES hotline received this screen recorded video from a concerned member of public from a story that is no longer available – the video shows a man and five others violently hitting a protected species Reticulated python, using crates at the bicycle stand of Boon Lay Place market.
They later bring the python to notice board area beside a food stall and use a cleaver to chop the snake’s head until they confirm that the poor snake is dead.
Our investigations and interviews at 7am onsite today (19 April 2023) indicate that there are police cameras and some recollected a snake sighting at 1:30am 18 April 2023 (Tue) .
ACRES is shocked and disturbed by the celebratory tone and all the cheering in inflicting suffering and death to a voiceless protected native species, with no indication of calling someone for help (NParks or ACRES).
ACRES has submitted all the relevant information to NParks, who is now investigating this further.
It is alarming that despite many educational efforts, violence towards the voiceless still lurks in our society.
Such incidents involving killing/hurting snakes have been happening repeatedly, and we hope that this case will result in prosecuting the individuals involved, serving a severe deterrence for the future of our animals in the community – whether a cute cuddly animal or a scaly reptile that many of us may be fearful of.
If you know of any individual in this video or have witnessed this act, please reach out to us at our 24-hour hotline 97837782 or email [email protected] by whatsapp/email/call. All information will be kept confidential.