121 Irish sheep die of suffocation on flight to Singapore

More than 100 sheep died mid-flight between Ireland and Singapore on their way to the annual korban, a Muslim religious event in which sheep, buffaloes and goats are slaughtered as a sacrifice to Allah. Authorities said the sheep died of heat stress or suffocation. (UPI/Shutterstock/danielo)

CHANGI, Singapore, Sept. 11 (UPI) — More than 100 Irish sheep have been found dead upon arrival at Changi Airport in Singapore on Sunday morning of apparent suffocation, authorities said.

The sheep were part of a shipment of 1,700 being flown from Ireland to Singapore for Monday’s Hari Raya Haji ceremonies. Local sources said the sheep died of heat stress or suffocation. The other sheep on the flight are reportedly OK.

As the plane arrived at Changi Airport’s cargo terminal, Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority were ready to inspect the shipment and found 121 sheep had died mid-flight. The AFVA found no sign of infectious disease.

Another 1,800 sheep were expected to arrive from Australia as well.

Approximately 3,500 livestock in goats, buffaloes and sheep were scheduled to be part of the annual korban, a Muslim religious event in which livestock are sacrificed to show gratitude to Allah.

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