Man charged over fake image of crocodile at Pandan Reservoir

A 30-year-old man faces charges on September 29 for his role in creating a forged photo of a crocodile sighting at Pandan Reservoir, reported to authorities in August. Suspensions of water activities at the reservoir ensued for two days following the false image's dissemination by the man to a colleague on August 20, prompting search-and-capture operations by PUB and NParks.

The police disclosed preliminary findings on September 28, indicating the man utilized AI to fabricate the crocodile image and attempted to cover his tracks by deleting it and the associated app. Conviction for communicating a false message could result in up to three years imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000, or both; obstruction of justice carries a possible seven-year sentence, fine, or both.

PUB alerted NParks and the Singapore Rowing Association and Singapore Canoe Federation to suspend water-related activities, installed warning signs, and informed the public about exercising caution. The police emphasized their commitment to prosecuting those who spread falsehoods, stating that such actions can cause public anxiety and waste resources.

They advised the public to refrain from disseminating false information or manipulated images, including AI-generated content, to authorities as factual data.