Man arrested in Karon with protected slow loris after photo complaints
Officials from the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, supported by Karon Police, local administrative officers and Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee, moved in on the suspect on Apr 27 following complaints about illegal…
A man was arrested in Karon, Phuket, on April 27 after officials acted on complaints that illegal wildlife was being used for photos with tourists. Officers from the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, backed by Karon Police, local administrative officers and Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee, found him with a slow loris, a species protected under Thai law.
Authorities said the suspect also had a shoulder bag containing two knives and a metal rod fashioned from a shark fin.
Police said he resisted arrest and attempted to attack officers before being subdued. He was then taken into custody, informed of his rights and charged with illegal possession of a protected animal under the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act.
Slow loris sent to Phang Nga wildlife center
The rescued slow loris was transferred to the Phang Nga Provincial Wildlife Breeding Center. Officials said it will undergo rehabilitation there before any consideration of release back into the wild.
Authorities said using protected wildlife for tourism, including street photography, remains a serious offence in Thailand. They said violators face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to B500,000, or both.
Officials added that enforcement will continue in high-traffic areas including Karon to curb illegal wildlife exploitation and protect natural resources.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/man-arrested-in-karon-for-illegal-possession-of-slow-loris-100059.php
