67-year-old man sentenced to 7 years preventive detention after admitting to cutting cat open with knife

A 67-year-old man was sentenced in court today (Sep 26) to seven years preventive detention for animal cruelty.

Tan Pwee Sin was also charged with criminal intimidation and dishonest retention of stolen property.

On Jan 30, a cat was found lying in a pool of blood at Block 1 Spooner Road with its intestines exposed, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) said in a media release.

It was immediately brought to a veterinary clinic but succumbed to its injuries the following day.

Tan Pwee Sin was identified after AVA carried out investigations into the matter.

A knife that was allegedly used to injure the cat was also found.

Tan subsequently admitted to harming the cat with his knife.

AVA investigates all animal cruelty feedback and will take necessary enforcement action.

First-time offenders who commit animal cruelty may be fined up to $14,000 and/or jailed for 18 months. 

The public play an important role in safeguarding animal welfare.

AVA urges the public to promptly report cases of animal cruelty or pet abandonment via their 24-hour hotline, 1800-476-1600 or on their website.

Photographic and/or video graphic evidence can help them with their investigations.

All information shared with AVA will be held in the strictest confidence.