SINGAPORE: A video uploaded to the Facebook group Complaint Singapore on 22 November has highlighted a rat infestation at a coffee shop, reportedly at Block 23 Hougang Avenue 3.
The footage shows multiple rats crawling across the kitchen sink and surrounding areas, raising serious hygiene concerns.
In the video, at least four rats can be seen, with one loitering around a wok.
The situation worsens as a rat begins nibbling on uncovered meat in an open plastic bag on the sink.
“You see, [the rat] is eating the meat,” remarks the individual recording the video.
Two more rats join in the “feast” shortly after, with packaged food, including noodles, visible on a nearby table.
A male voice in the background is heard suggesting that the evidence should be reported to the Ministry of Health (MOH) and urging the authorities to shut the kitchen.
Rising rat sightings despite NEA progress
The National Environment Agency (NEA) previously reported a 50 per cent reduction in rat burrows in public areas in the first half of 2024 compared to 2023, with burrow counts dropping from 5,200 to 2,700.
However, isolated incidents persist, including:
- January 2024: A Hougang resident found rat droppings in her car engine, with chewed wiring rendering the vehicle inoperable.
- July 2024: A rat was seen on a dining table at Orchard Central’s Don Don Donki.
- August 2024: A Hougang Avenue 6 resident reported being bitten by a rat, which Aljunied-Hougang Town Council attributed to possible migration from nearby construction sites or sewers.
The AHTC assured residents of ongoing inspections and education for food establishments on waste management.
Health and Legal Implications
According to NEA, rats spread diseases like leptospirosis and hantavirus, potentially leading to severe health issues such as kidney damage and fatal respiratory illnesses.
Premises owners who fail to implement proper refuse management or create conditions conducive to rat infestations may face enforcement action under the Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA) and the Control of Vectors and Pesticides Act (CVPA).
Under the CVPA, first-time offenders may be fined up to S$20,000, sentenced to up to three months’ imprisonment, or both.
For a first offence under the EPHA, the penalty includes a fine of up to S$1,000, with an additional fine of up to S$100 for each day the offence continues after conviction.
