Reply to Media Queries on Alleged Dog Abuse in Pasir Ris Camp

In response to media queries on the outcome of MINDEF’s investigations into the alleged dog abuse, MINDEF issued the following reply:"MINDEF has completed the investigations into the alleged abuse of dogs in Pasir Ris Camp and concluded that the allegations were unfounded. We have shared the findings of the investigations with the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) and AVA agrees that there was no dog abuse committed."

Colonel Kenneth Liow
Director Public Affairs
Ministry of Defence

The Army has also posted the following statement on its Facebook page:"MINDEF Concludes Investigation into Alleged Abuse of Dogs in Pasir Ris Camp" MINDEF/SAF has completed an investigation into the allegations of dog abuse in Pasir Ris Camp, and concluded that the allegations were unfounded. The findings of& the investigation were shared with the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) who agreed that there was no dog abuse committed.

Since the middle of last year, personnel from Pasir Ris Camp have been chased by stray dogs in the vicinity of the camp premises. Pasir Ris Camp also received complaints from members of public about being chased by these dogs.

In November and December last year, the dogs grew increasingly aggressive and instead of just chasing people, started to attack them. In December 2013 alone, there were six incidents of attacks by the dogs. Four of these incidents resulted in injuries to personnel. The worst case happened to a civilian lady working in the camp, who was bitten on two occasions. Camp personnel then decided to chase the dogs out to ensure the safety of the personnel in the camp. The AVA had also been alerted of the situation.

The SAF does not condone any acts of cruelty to animals and takes a serious view if its servicemen were found to be guilty of such acts."