SINGAPORE - Two Singaporean men are under investigation by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) for importing animals into Singapore after two spotted doves and three sugar gliders were found hidden in various parts of their car.

In a statement on Thursday, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority said that the men were stopped for checks when their car arrived at Tuas Checkpoint at around 10.40pm on Tuesday.

Two bird cages, each containing a live spotted dove, were found hidden between the rear bumper and the car boot.

Three sugar gliders were also found in a small pouch hidden behind the glove compartment.

The car was driven by a 20-year-old man, who was accompanied by a 44-year-old.

Anyone who imports live animals or birds without a valid permit can be fined up to $10,000, imprisoned up to a year, or both.

The public can refer to AVA's website or the SG TravelKaki mobile app for more information on bringing back animals from overseas travels.