Acres condemns incident where 2 individuals burn alive reticulated python stuck in machinery

UPDATE on Nov. 27 at 7:30pm: This article has been updated to include a statement from NParks.

Acres recently received a report of animal cruelty — two individuals caught on camera burning a reticulated python alive.

Acres' advocacy co-CEO, Anbarasi Boopal (also known as Anbu), shared on the non-profit's Instagram that the incident occurred on Nov. 20 at an unknown location.

"I'm here today because I'm overwhelmed with disgust, shock and frustration," she said.

The organisation has since filed a report with the National Parks Board (NParks).

Three times

Anbu told Mothership that they received an anonymous report on Nov. 24, of two individuals who had burnt a reticulated python while it was captured.

She pointed out in her post that the two individuals were trying to capture the python, which was stuck in what appeared to be machinery.

The two individuals then used a flammable spray and a lighter to burn the snake three times.

Anbu noted that the snake was immobile as it was stuck and did not struggle or pose any danger to anyone.

She added that the two individuals looked like they were wearing a uniform and had snake-handling tools, leading her to deduce that they could be from the pest control industry.

The post included the original clip of the incident, showing the men using spray cans and a lighter, shooting flames at the snake that was not moving.

One of the men also stepped on the head of the snake.

At the end of the video, the snake was transferred into a clear container. Despite what happened, it appeared to be alive and moving.

In response to Mothership's queries, NParks' group director Jessica Kwok confirmed that they received feedback on a case of alleged animal cruelty involving a reticulated python being burnt alive and are looking into the matter.

"NParks takes all cases related to animal cruelty seriously and investigates all feedback received. We will take action against anyone who has committed an act of animal cruelty," Kwok added.

Members of the public can play a part by promptly reporting suspected cases of animal cruelty to NParks or providing potential evidence via their website or by calling their Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600. As with all investigations, all forms of evidence are critical to the process, and photographic and/or video-graphic evidence provided by the public will help.

Not the first time

Anbu described the individuals' actions as "horrific cruelty", and stated that there have been numerous cases involving the mishandling of snakes or monitor lizards by members of the public or pest control companies.

She cited a case in April 2023 where a man at Boon Lay Place Market hit a python on its head before using a cleaver to hack the snake's head off.

Anbu called for stricter deterrence and enforcement action to be taken, pointing out that the man who chopped the python's head off at Boon Lay Market Place was only fined S$1,000.

"We navigate so many risks in our environment on a daily basis. We know how to use the escalator safely. We know to stand behind the yellow line on a train platform. So surely we can also learn about a wildlife that we fear, so we can actually get rid of the fear and practice wildlife etiquette."

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ACRES (@eyesofacres)

What to do if you come across a python?

Reticulated pythons are native to Singapore and can grow to over nine metres in length.

These non-venomous constrictors can often be found in urban areas, but are usually shy, and will not attack unless disturbed or provoked.

Anyone who comes across a snake should keep calm and maintain a safe distance from the animal.

The snake should be left alone, especially if it is in its natural habitat.

Members of the public can call the NParks helpline at 1800 476 1600 or the Acres 24-hour wildlife rescue hotline 9783 7782 if assistance is required.

Top photos via Acres