Elephant ivory tusk hidden inside modified tumbler seized at Keppel Entrance — Indonesian crew member arrested
The 30-year-old was referred to NParks for further investigation after his arrest. This article ( Elephant ivory tusk hidden inside modified tumbler seized at Keppel Entrance — Indonesian crew member arrested ) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News .
Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at Keppel Entrance Crew Office thwarted an attempt to smuggle an elephant ivory tusk into the country, arresting an Indonesian crew member on August 9, 2026. The 30-year-old was transiting in Singapore on his way home when ICA officers conducted a routine baggage check.
The crew member was questioned about any items he wished to declare, but claimed he had nothing to declare. During the physical inspection, ICA officers discovered the concealed ivory tusk inside a modified tumbler in his luggage. He was promptly arrested and handed over to the National Parks Board (NParks) for further investigation.
The incident was reported on ICA's official Facebook page on September 10, 2026. According to the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act, those convicted of illegal trade in CITES-listed species, such as elephant ivory, can face a fine of up to S$500,000 and/or six years in prison. Singapore has a zero-tolerance policy towards wildlife smuggling.
ICA pledged to continue collaborating with NParks to combat wildlife trafficking and warned the public against purchasing items made from endangered species, as this fuels the demand for illegal wildlife trade.
Written by urgent.news from The Independent Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
