Yishun stray dogs allegedly poisoned by 'suspicious men' in botched cull

Residents at Yishun Riverwalk reported finding a dead stray dog near the residential estate in late April 2018, after spotting a silver van and three men entering a nearby forested area with a plastic bag earlier that week. The Agri-food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) initially denied involvement but later admitted hiring contractors to address complaints about stray dogs chasing cyclists in the area — though residents noted no injuries had been reported from such incidents.

Animal advocates from the Yishun 326 Tabby Cat Facebook page investigated the forested area and claimed to have discovered a plastic bag containing dog food, gloves, and white powder, fueling suspicions of poisoning. The dog's body was removed without investigation or confirmed cause of death. A commenter reported spotting the same van and personnel conducting similar operations in Pasir Ris, suggesting a wider pattern.

The incident sparked criticism of AVA's culling methods as inhumane and outdated, with animal lovers arguing the authority should adopt more compassionate approaches to stray animal management rather than lethal control.

• 27 Apr 2018coconuts.co