A small lizard caused a stir at a BreadTalk outlet in Punggol after it was spotted on a bread display shelf, prompting a customer to step in and help staff safely remove the reptile.
The incident reportedly took place at the BreadTalk outlet in Punggol Waterway Point at around 4pm on Jun. 1.
According to Chinese-language daily Shin Min Daily News, a customer and her friend were shopping for bread when they noticed a small lizard perched on one of the display racks.
The customer claimed that staff were hesitant to approach the reptile, so her friend volunteered to help.
Customer uses tongs and plastic bag to catch reptile
The reptile was eventually captured using a pair of bread tongs and a plastic bag before being handed over to mall security personnel.
The customer later said she no longer wanted the bread she had selected after seeing the lizard near the display area. However, she claimed she was informed that a refund could not be provided and was instead offered the option of choosing different products.
The incident was subsequently shared with citizen journalism platform STOMP.
BreadTalk says lizard likely wandered in from nearby greenery
Responding to media queries, BreadTalk said it was aware of the incident and believes the lizard had accidentally entered the store from the surrounding green spaces.
The company said staff immediately cordoned off the affected section to ensure customer safety and maintain hygiene standards.
BreadTalk also praised the quick-thinking customer who helped remove the reptile.
“We are very grateful to the customer for their alertness and assistance,” the company said.
Products discarded and area sanitised
BreadTalk added that food safety and hygiene remain top priorities for the company.
As a precautionary measure, all products located within the affected area were discarded. The bread tongs used during the capture were also disposed of.
The company said the section underwent thorough cleaning and disinfection following the incident.
It also noted that additional pest-control measures and more frequent inspections would be implemented to minimise the chances of similar incidents occurring in future.
No injuries were reported, and the lizard was safely removed from the premises.
Image Source: STOMP via Shin Min Daily News/Google Maps