Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on detecting and deterring illegal wildlife trade
May 6, 2019
Ms Rahayu Mahzam: To ask the Minister for National Development (a) in the past three years, how many illegal wildlife trade consignments have been detected at Singapore’s land, air and sea checkpoints; (b) how is technology used to better detect and deter illegal wildlife trade through Singapore’s checkpoints; and (c) how is Singapore working with international authorities to stamp out organised crime that deal with illegal wildlife trade?
Answer:
A total of 67 illegal wildlife trade consignments were detected at our border checkpoints from 2016 to 2018.
Our enforcement agencies use technology to screen and check travellers and goods at our checkpoints. For example, ICA uses radiographic scanners and hand-held screening devices to ensure that goods that enter Singapore are lawful and legitimate. We also cooperate closely with our regional and international counterparts to combat illegal wildlife trade. For instance, our agencies assess intelligence reports from our partners and work with them to act upon credible and actionable information.