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SINGAPORE: Police are investigating an incident in which a man illegally entered the white rhino enclosure at the Singapore Zoo.
A video of the incident, posted on TikTok user ralphwee_’s account, shows a man wearing a mask on what appears to be one of the zoo’s trams.
He is then seen in the white rhino enclosure, with two of the animals in the background. Perform a backflip before climbing to climb the fence and leave the enclosure.
Checks on the TikTok account by CNA on Friday (December 18) showed that the video appeared to have been removed or made private, although it had been uploaded to other users’ accounts on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram.
In a story posted on his official Instagram account, Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), which runs the zoo, as well as the Night Safari, River Safari and Jurong Bird Park, said he was aware of the video.
“This is a reckless and senseless act that is socially irresponsible, extremely dangerous, and simply disrespectful to wildlife and our animals,” said WRS.
“We appeal to the sensitivity of the social community, we do not encourage acts of imitation, this can put lives in danger,” he added.
“To the millions of people who have visited our parks, appreciated and shown respect for our animals, we thank you for your kindness and support.”
When contacted, WRS said the incident occurred on Thursday (December 17) and that they had referred the case to the police.
Police confirmed to CNA that a report had been submitted and said investigations are ongoing.
According to the World Wildlife Fund, the white rhino, which is the second largest land mammal, is relatively non-aggressive. It is officially listed as “Near Threatened” due to the poaching of rhino horn.
