NParks staff under investigation for handling snake for ‘photography session’ at Mandai Trail

A National Parks Board (NParks) employee and other individuals are under investigation for apparently handling a snake in a wooded area in Mandai.

The incident reportedly occurred at Mandai Road Track 15.

Handled snake

In a Facebook post on May 31, a bespectacled man was seen handling a snake, which was curled around a tree branch.

A man was also seen posing with a smaller snake.

Four other individuals also appeared to be at the scene, who were equipped with lighting and photography equipment.

Photography session

According to the Facebook user, who wanted to remain anonymous, the group was there for a “photography session”.

The snake was apparently removed from the branch above the ground about three to four times.

An individual involved spent an estimated 10 to 15 minutes repositioning the snake multiple times to “achieve a preferred photographic composition”.

He also apparently commented that the snake’s position did not “look very natural” and proceeded to move it again.

The user claimed the snake appeared to be in the process of shedding.

A second, smaller snake was also apparently handled and passed around among the group for “photography opportunities”.

Another individual, identified as Brandon, purportedly asked others to take photographs of him while he held the snake.

Investigation

In response to Mothership's queries, Jessica Kwok, the NParks’ group director for enforcement and investigation, confirmed the incident of the snake being handled on the Mandai Trail.

It involved members of the public and an NParks staff member who was there in his personal capacity.

Investigations are ongoing.

Kwok also reminded members of the public to admire wildlife from a distance, and to use optical aids such as binoculars to observe them.

If the public encounters any animal, they should remain calm and back away slowly for their own safety and the well-being of the animal.