Court finds cross border conspiracy after puppies were hidden in motorcycle at Tuas Checkpoint
A case involving smuggled puppies, unlicensed breeding, and cross border coordination has highlighted Singapore’s strict stance on animal welfare and import controls.
Puppies Found Hidden at Tuas Checkpoint
Singapore authorities uncovered the scheme after Immigration and Checkpoints Authority officers stopped a Malaysia registered motorcycle at Tuas Checkpoint at about 5.20am on March 1, 2025. Three puppies were discovered concealed inside a backpack placed within the motorcycle’s storage compartment, prompting further investigations.
Delivery Linked to Dog Boarding Business
Investigators found that the puppies were meant to be delivered to Eswaran Rajasevran, a 44 year old Singaporean who managed daily operations at Pawhaus and Dognassium Doggie Daycare in Telok Kurau. The business, owned by his fiancée, held a dog boarding licence but did not have approval to operate as a pet shop or sell animals.
Coordination With Malaysian Breeder
Court proceedings revealed that Eswaran had coordinated with a Malaysian breeder known as “Jivah,” whom he met via TikTok in 2024. Eswaran discussed the number of dogs to be brought into Singapore and arranged deliveries through his accomplice, Rizal Rakesh Abdullah, who was arrested at the checkpoint.
Unlicensed Breeding for Sale
Following the arrest, inspections at the Pawhaus premises uncovered eight toy poodles, including a litter of six puppies. The court heard that Eswaran had previously purchased a toy poodle from Malaysia for S$1,500 and used it to breed with another dog he had adopted locally, intending to sell the offspring for profit.
Planned Sales and Seized Dogs
Eswaran planned to sell the puppies for at least S$1,000 each and had communicated with a buyer in February 2025 to sell two puppies for S$1,800 each. The sale did not proceed after authorities seized the dogs following the smuggling arrest.
Court Ruling and Penalties
On February 4, 2026, the court fined Eswaran S$15,000 for offences under the Animals and Birds Act, including conspiring to import animals illegally and keeping dogs in captivity for sale without the required licence. Prosecutors from NParks had sought a higher fine, while the defense argued that Eswaran was working toward obtaining proper licences to operate legally.
The case underscores Singapore’s zero tolerance approach toward illegal animal imports and unlicensed breeding activities. For Singaporeans and Indonesians observing cross border enforcement trends, the ruling reinforces the importance of regulatory compliance, animal welfare protections, and strict oversight of the pet trade.
Sources: CNA (2026) , Malay Mail (2026)
Keywords: Puppy Smuggling Singapore, Unlicensed Dog Breeding, Tuas Checkpoint Case, NParks Prosecution, Animals And Birds Act
