Singapore Crushes Nearly 8,000kg Of Seized Elephant Ivory Worth S$13m

SATURDAY CRIME NIGHT � SINGAPORE CLAMPS DOWN ON THE ILLEGAL IVORY TRADE

On 13 June 2016, for the first time in local history, the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) crushed 7.9 tonnes of elephant ivory, worth about S$13 million. The crushed ivory came from four previous seizures by Singaporean authorities dating back to January 2014.

The ivory was then incinerated at an eco-waste plant, with the ashes to be used as landfill at Pulau Semakau.

As stated by Senior Minister of State for National Development and Home Affairs, Mr Desmond Lee, the crushing of ivory ensures that the ivory does not re-enter the market. This symbolic act sends out a strong message to all that Singapore does not condone the illegal trade of ivory, and will take strict measures to prevent Singapore being used as a key transit point for the smuggling of ivory from Africa to Asia.

From 2013 to 2015, Singapore reported five ivory confiscations, accounting for more than seven tonnes of illegal ivory. Additionally, sixteen other shipments amounting to 4.1 tonnes of ivory, that were bound for Singapore, or had passed through its ports, were seized elsewhere.

In order to prevent Singapore being used as a transit point for the smuggling of ivory from Africa to Asia, collaboration between government agencies and wildlife protection organisations is crucial. Stricter measures need to be taken to curb illegal wildlife trade, and the public also has a part to play by not buying illegally-traded products.

Read the full story here: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-crushes-nearly/2867014.html

#ACRES #EndAnimalCruelty #Elephants #Ivory #IllegalWildlifeTrade #Singapore #AVA



The 7.9 tonnes of elephant tusks, worth about S$13 million, were obtained from various interceptions of illegal shipments in recent years.

Source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-crus..

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ACRES

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based charity and Institution of Public Character, founded by Singaporeans in 2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare.

ACRES has six focus areas: Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Wildlife Crime Investigation, Zoo Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Community Outreach and Promoting Cruelty-Free Living.

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