Singapore man to face charges after fake AI crocodile image triggers Pandan Reservoir search

CNA reported that the man allegedly created the image and sent it to a colleague, prompting authorities to act after a crocodile sighting was reported at the reservoir on August 20. — AFP pic

By Malay Mail

First Published: Tuesday, 29 Sep 2026 1:48 PM MYT

SINGAPORE, Sept 29 — A 30-year-old man is due to be charged in court today after an AI-generated image of a crocodile he created triggered a search operation at and the suspension of water activities there.

CNA reported that the man allegedly created the image and sent it to a colleague, prompting authorities to act after a crocodile sighting was reported at the reservoir on August 20.

The national water agency PUB subsequently advised members of the public to exercise caution, while its personnel and the National Parks Board carried out searches for the reptile.

The image was later determined to be fabricated, prompting a police report the following day.

Police said preliminary investigations found that the man had created the AI-generated image before sending it to his colleague.

The man later deleted both the image and the application used to create it, which police said was an attempt to conceal his actions.

He is expected to face charges of communicating a false message and obstructing the course of justice.

A conviction for communicating a false message carries a maximum jail term of three years, a fine of up to S$10,000 (RM32,000), or both.

Those convicted of obstructing the course of justice can be jailed for up to seven years, fined, or both.

Police said false information could cause public alarm while diverting government resources towards incidents that did not occur.

They urged the public not to circulate false information or manipulated images that could unnecessarily alarm others.

Police also warned against submitting fabricated or digitally altered material, including AI-generated images, to authorities while representing it as genuine.