Police blocked off a section of the park connector near Jiak Kim Bridge in Robertson Quay following a suspected otter attack on a pedestrian. National Parks Board (NParks) staff were on site to investigate.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 AM on Sunday (11 May 2025).
Shin Min Daily News was notified that portions of the park connector had been cordoned off with police officers present. Reports indicated a member of the public was allegedly bitten by an otter.
Otters Commonly Seen in Area
When reporters arrived around 10:00 AM Sunday, they found at least 10 meters of the pathway beside the Singapore River blocked off.
Police had departed, but three NParks staff remained conducting investigations. Several animal enthusiasts were also at the location, speaking with officials.
Park users interviewed stated otters are regularly spotted in this area. One anonymous dog walker said she travels the park connector each morning.
“I spot otters almost every day, including yesterday,” she noted.
She mentioned that typically five or six otters appear in the vicinity, swimming and playing in the river. “They sometimes walk on the park connector too.”
Safety Notices Posted
The section of park connector displays at least three warning signs about otters, instructing the public to “maintain a safe distance from otters.”
One notice explains, “An otter family is temporarily residing in this area, and it’s their nature to care for and protect their young,” advising visitors to observe from a distance only.
An NParks spokesperson confirmed receiving a report of an otter biting incident.
The spokesperson added that local otter enthusiasts from the “Otter Working Group” were present and provided emergency assistance to the injured person.
