NParks rules out deliberate cruelty in Punggol cat case, cites road accident as likely cause

The National Parks Board (NParks) announced on 17 May 2025 that the death of a well-known community cat in Punggol was unlikely to have been caused by deliberate abuse.

The tabby cat, named Shere Khan and affectionately called “Papa Cat” by residents, was found gravely injured near Block 326B Sumang Walk on 12 May. Despite veterinary intervention, the cat was later euthanised due to the severity of its injuries.

From suspected cruelty to accidental cause

NParks initially stated that it was investigating the case as suspected animal cruelty, following public concerns and reports by animal welfare group LUNI Singapore.

LUNI’s founder, Nina Astolfi, cited a veterinary report suggesting the injuries could have been caused by strangulation or blunt force trauma. These included bilateral proptosis (protruding eyes), swelling and lacerations on the tongue, superficial facial bruising, a head lesion, and frayed nails on all four paws.

The group argued that such injuries were consistent with intentional harm.

However, after reviewing veterinary findings, interviewing witnesses, and checking closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, NParks concluded otherwise.

Jessica Kwok, group director of enforcement and investigation at NParks, stated: “Based on the investigations and observations from the vet report, we did not find any overt evidence that the injuries were sustained due to a deliberate act of cruelty.”

She added that blunt force trauma to the head was observed, but such injuries are commonly caused by road traffic accidents.

Veterinary assessment and care

NParks said the cat was retrieved on 12 May following public feedback and sent immediately to a private veterinary clinic. Shere Khan was found to be hypothermic and dehydrated upon arrival.

Despite treatment, its condition worsened. In consultation with its caregiver, identified through the cat’s microchip, the decision was made to euthanise the animal on welfare grounds.

The body was subsequently cremated.

Kwok emphasised that investigations suggested the most probable cause of the injuries was a vehicular accident, noting that the cat had been found near a loading and unloading bay.

Public grief and political response

The case attracted significant attention online and among residents of Punggol, where Shere Khan had been a familiar presence for years.

In a Facebook post on 17 May, Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for National Development, acknowledged the emotional impact on the community.

“The cat’s death has affected many residents in Punggol, where Shere Khan was considered a beloved member of the community,” he wrote. “I hope that the investigation gives them some closure.”

Tan also expressed appreciation for Singaporeans’ concern over the welfare of community cats. He added that NParks is working with stakeholders and animal welfare groups as part of an ongoing review of the Animals and Birds Act to enhance safeguards and penalties against animal cruelty.

Second cat case in Yishun

The incident in Punggol came just days after another shocking case of alleged animal abuse in Yishun.

On 9 May, a community cat known to residents as King Kong was found dead at Yishun Street 51. The animal welfare community reported that showed signs of torture, including gouged eyes and dismemberment.

NParks confirmed that investigations into the Yishun case are still ongoing.

Kwok urged the public to avoid speculation while inquiries are underway: “We urge the public not to further speculate on the details of the ongoing case and to verify their information sources. These are crucial in allowing for a fair round of investigation to be carried out.”

She reiterated that NParks treats all reports of suspected cruelty seriously, investigating them thoroughly with the support of veterinary experts and law enforcement when necessary.

Wider concerns about community cat welfare

Singapore is home to an estimated 60,000 community cats, according to animal welfare groups. Many live in close proximity to residents in public housing estates, often under the care of volunteers who provide food and medical support.

Cases of abuse or injury tend to spark significant public outcry. Yishun, in particular, has been the focus of repeated cases of cruelty to cats over the past decade, earning it notoriety among animal welfare activists.

Groups such as LUNI Singapore, the Cat Welfare Society, and other ground-up initiatives continue to advocate for better protection measures, including clearer penalties for offenders, improved surveillance in residential areas, and stronger partnerships with town councils.

NParks has said it will continue to engage these groups in reviewing current legislation and enforcement frameworks.

Conclusion

While NParks’ findings have ruled out deliberate cruelty in the Punggol incident, the case highlights both the vulnerability of community animals and the strong emotional bonds between residents and neighbourhood cats.

Authorities have closed the investigation into Shere Khan’s death, but attention remains on the ongoing Yishun case and the broader question of how best to safeguard animals living in shared spaces.