Man arrested in Phuket for using slow loris in tourist photo scheme

A man was arrested in Phuket on the night of April 27 after officials found him carrying a protected slow loris in Karon and offering photo opportunities to tourists. Khao Phra Thaew Non-Hunting Area officers joined Karon police and administrative officials in the operation after complaints that protected wildlife, including slow lorises, was being used for paid pictures.

Weapons seized and wildlife case filed under protection law

Officers found the suspect in possession of 1 protected animal, 1 shoulder bag, 2 knives and 1 shark-fin-shaped metal blade, officials said. Authorities said he also attempted to attack officers during the arrest before being informed of his rights and taken into custody.

The case was filed under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act B. E. 2562 and B. E. 2535 for possessing protected wildlife without permission.

Officials warned the offense carries a maximum fine of 500,000 baht, imprisonment of up to 5 years, or both.

The seized slow loris, also known in Thai as nang ai, was sent to the Phang Nga Wildlife Breeding Center for rehabilitation. Officials said it will later be released back into nature.

Source: https://www.thairath.co.th/news/local/2929336