Over 30 wild animals seized from Singapore flat

Singapore, June 18: Over 30 wild animals of highly endangered species such as the slow loris, marmoset, Indian star tortoise and ball python, prohibited for being kept as pets, have been seized from a flat in Singapore during a raid, authorities said.

The animals were recovered earlier this month by the country's Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority, Xinhua reported Monday. It was the largest seizure of wildlife from the inland neighbourhoods since 2002.

The animals have now been sent to the Wildlife Reserves Singapore, which operates local zoos.

In Singapore, one requires a permit for any import and export or re-export of animals.

Singapore is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

It is an offence to be in possession of or to trade in any illegally imported or acquired species listed under the convention.

IANS