Night Safari performer detained for drug offences, 9 others questioned
Posted: 03 March 2009 2240 hrs

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SINGAPORE: A contract performer with the Singapore Night Safari is being investigated for drug offences.

He was detained by the Central Narcotics Bureau after he and two fellow dancers were stopped at the Woodlands Checkpoint during a routine check on Sunday for possession of the drug "ice".

The three had gone to Johor, Malaysia on their day off.

On Monday, seven more male members of the same cultural performing group were ordered to undergo urine tests.

According to a statement by Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), which operates the Night Safari, the 10 belong to a dance group contracted for a specific period with the park.

"As the troupe leader of the dancers, I am very angry and disappointed at the behaviour of my colleagues. Their behaviour was shameful and this should not have happened. They had put my other innocent colleagues through a very difficult time," said Rudolph Mindot, whose group comprises 11 men and three women.

WRS, which is assisting the authorities with the investigation, called the incident "a complete breach of trust".

"WRS takes drug abuse seriously and does not tolerate such conduct. Any employee or contracted staff found guilty would be terminated immediately," said Ms Pauline Chua, assistant director of human resources.

- CNA/yt