In a landmark case of animal cruelty, Muhammad Danial Sukirman, 31, has been sentenced to 20 days in jail for the neglect of 43 cats in a vacant Ang Mo Kio flat, marking the most significant prosecution by the National Parks Board (NParks) concerning the number of pets involved.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing Details
On Wednesday, Danial pleaded guilty to 10 charges of causing unnecessary pain and suffering to animals, with an additional 34 charges considered during sentencing. These charges were under the Animal and Birds Act, relating to the neglect of 33 cats and the failure to attend a required meeting with the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS).
The court heard that from August to November 2021, Danial failed to provide adequate food, water, or attention to the cats, resulting in severe neglect. This case represents the first jail sentence under Section 42(1)(d) of the Animal and Birds Act, which addresses pet owner neglect.
Prosecution and Defense Arguments
Prosecutors Ron Goh and Farisha Asharaff argued for a jail term instead of a fine, citing Danial’s deliberate neglect of the cats, which were breeding uncontrollably and living in cramped conditions. Farisha noted that the cats were confined in a small space without proper sustenance and that the living conditions were dire.
In his defense, Danial, who was unrepresented, expressed regret for his actions and highlighted his role as the sole breadwinner, emphasizing the financial and work-related pressures he faced.
Discovery and Investigation
The case came to light on November 5, 2021, after police were alerted to a foul smell emanating from a public housing unit. Unable to contact the flat’s occupant and driven by the severe stench and sounds of distress from the cats, police enlisted a locksmith to access the property. Inside, they discovered over 30 live cats, two dead cats, and skeletal remains.
An inspection on November 8, conducted by NParks and Housing and Development Board (HDB) officers along with Danial, confirmed the presence of 41 live cats, two deceased, and skeletal remains. Danial acknowledged ownership and surrendered the animals to AVS.
Veterinary Findings and Conditions of the Flat
A veterinarian examination revealed that all surviving cats suffered due to a lack of clean water, with the only available water being contaminated with fecal matter. The environment was described as filthy and unsanitary, with severe overcrowding and inadequate ventilation contributing to the distressing conditions.
The flat, left with decomposing carcasses and high levels of ammonia due to poor sanitation, posed significant health risks not only to the animals but also to humans potentially exposed to the environment.
Background and Context
The situation unfolded after Danial obtained a new HDB flat in Yishun in July 2021 and moved there in August, leaving the cats in the previous flat without adequate care. His sporadic visits and minimal feeding efforts were insufficient, leading to the tragic conditions discovered by the authorities.
For each charge, Danial faced a potential 18 months in jail or a fine of up to S$15,000, or both, highlighting the severity of the offenses under Singapore’s stringent animal welfare laws.
Legal and Social Implications
This case sets a significant precedent in Singapore’s handling of animal cruelty cases, emphasizing the legal responsibilities of pet owners and the serious consequences of neglect. The judicial system’s firm stance serves as a warning to others and reinforces the need for compassion and proper care in pet ownership.
