Man who threw cat and kitten out of window of Boon Lay Drive flat gets $16k fine

A 50-year-old man threw a cat and a kitten out of a Housing and Development Board (HDB) unit's window at Boon Lay Drive.

The Agri-Food Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) was alerted to the case on July 2, 2017.

The cat ran away, while the kitten, which was healthy and not injured, was rescued and adopted by a passer-by.

Although the witness was unable to see anyone committing the act, the AVA investigated and identified Krishnasamy Kaliyappan as the perpetrator.

He was fined $16,000 or eight weeks imprisonment in default for causing unnecessary pain and suffering to animals. He was also disqualified from owning a pet for 12 months.

The AVA said it investigates all feedback on alleged animal cruelty and will take enforcement action against any offenders.

If warranted, the AVA will press for deterrent sentences.

First-time offenders who commit animal cruelty are liable to a fine of up to $15,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 18 months.

The AVA would like to remind the public that safeguarding animal welfare is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of all stakeholders.

They added: "While AVA continues to ensure that the necessary enforcement action is taken and to raise awareness on animal welfare, members of the public can play their part by being vigilant."

The public can promptly report cases of animal welfare issues to AVA via its 24-hour hotline, 1800- 476-1600, or via its website www.ava.gov.sg/feedback.

The public is encouraged to assist the AVA by providing photographic and/or video-graphic evidence.

All information shared with AVA will be held in strict confidence.