NParks investigates two suspected cat abuse cases in Yishun and Punggol

The National Parks Board (NParks) has launched investigations into two separate incidents of suspected cat abuse in Yishun and Punggol. The cases, which occurred within days of each other, have stirred outrage among residents, animal welfare groups, and political leaders.

On 9 May 2025, a community cat known affectionately as King Kong was found mutilated in Yishun Street 51. Just days later, on 13 May, another cat named Shere Khan was discovered severely injured near Block 326B Sumang Walk in Punggol. Both incidents have since gained widespread attention online and offline.

According to NParks, feedback was received about “a cat found dead at Yishun Street 51 and an injured cat found in a car park near Block 326B Sumang Walk”. Investigations into both cases are ongoing, the agency confirmed on 14 May.

Yishun case: beloved cat King Kong found mutilated

King Kong, a familiar presence in the Yishun housing estate, was found dead in a gruesome state. Reports from residents and animal welfare groups said the cat’s eyes had been gouged out and its body dismembered.

The discovery deeply shocked the community. Residents described King Kong as a gentle, friendly cat often cared for and fed by locals.

Sayang Our Singapore’s Community Cats, a Facebook group dedicated to community cat welfare, expressed disbelief and sorrow over the incident. Members shared memories of King Kong and demanded accountability for the act of cruelty.

One of King Kong’s regular feeders posted an emotional appeal on social media, urging anyone with information to assist authorities.

Minister for Home Affairs and Law K. Shanmugam, who is also Member of Parliament for Nee Soon GRC, condemned the killing on Facebook, calling it “shocking cruelty”. He emphasised that such acts undermine community safety and must be addressed firmly.

Punggol case: Shere Khan succumbs to severe injuries

In Punggol, another suspected case of abuse emerged only days later. On 13 May, animal welfare group LUNI Singapore reported that a male tabby cat known as Shere Khan — also called Papa Cat — was found severely injured near Sumang Walk.

The incident was believed to have occurred between 11 and 12 May. Despite immediate veterinary intervention, Shere Khan later succumbed to his injuries.

According to LUNI Singapore, Shere Khan was a trusting community cat regularly cared for by volunteers. The organisation said the injuries strongly suggested deliberate abuse, possibly involving strangulation or blunt force trauma.

“This is one of the most brutal cases we have encountered,” the group stated on 13 May.

Founder Nina Astolfi cited the veterinary report, which revealed multiple serious injuries. These included bilateral proptosis (protruding eye globes), tongue swelling and lacerations, superficial bruising, a head lesion, and frayed nails on all four paws. The cat also arrived hypothermic and dehydrated.

Astolfi emphasised that the extent of injuries pointed towards intentional harm rather than accidental causes.

Cat Welfare Society assists with ground outreach

In response to both cases, the Cat Welfare Society (CWS) mobilised volunteers to carry out door-to-door outreach efforts in Yishun and Sumang Walk. The society aimed to raise awareness and gather information from residents who may have witnessed suspicious activity.

In an update on 14 May, CWS clarified that it was not an investigative body but supported authorities through ground mobilisation.

“We work on the ground to mobilise caregivers and volunteers to help gather information and raise awareness quickly,” the group said. “This is provided to the investigating body, AVS, in an effort to speed up their investigations.”

CWS added that it hoped for timely investigations and a clear outcome. “If these cats were in fact harmed by individuals, then they must be penalised fully under our laws.”

Penalties for animal cruelty in Singapore

Under the Animals and Birds Act, individuals found guilty of animal cruelty in Singapore may face a fine of up to S$15,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 18 months.

Cases that involve death or serious harm may attract heavier penalties depending on intent and aggravating factors.

Between 2019 and 2023, NParks investigated an average of 1,200 cases of animal cruelty and welfare concerns annually. Most involved domestic pets such as cats and dogs.

Authorities have consistently emphasised the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspected abuse, as witness accounts and information are critical for building cases.

Growing calls for stronger deterrence

Animal welfare groups and members of the public have called for stronger enforcement and deterrent measures following the back-to-back cases.

Online petitions and social media campaigns have urged stricter penalties and improved surveillance in areas where community animals live.

Some residents in Yishun noted that the town has a troubled history of cat abuse cases, with multiple incidents reported over the past decade. Advocates argue that stronger legal deterrence and community vigilance are needed to prevent repeat cases.

Meanwhile, volunteers caring for street animals have reported heightened fear among feeders and caregivers. Some have stepped up patrols in their neighbourhoods to protect vulnerable cats.

Community reactions reflect grief and anger

Both King Kong and Shere Khan were well-loved by their respective neighbourhoods, and news of their deaths has prompted an outpouring of grief.

In Yishun, makeshift memorials of flowers and notes were left at the site where King Kong was found. Residents recalled how the cat often accompanied children and elderly residents in the void deck.

In Punggol, caregivers remembered Shere Khan as a “gentle father figure” among the community cats. LUNI Singapore volunteers said his loss was particularly difficult given his trusting nature towards humans.

The emotional response has underscored the role of community animals in fostering neighbourhood bonds.

Authorities urge information sharing

NParks and the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) have encouraged members of the public with information about the incidents to come forward. Witness accounts, photographs, or video evidence could be crucial in piecing together the timeline of events.

Animal welfare groups have echoed the call, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious behaviour.