Man arrested in Phuket with slow loris used in tourist photo scheme
Man arrested in Phuket with slow loris used in tourist photo scheme — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.
A man was arrested in Karon, Phuket, on the night of April 27 after officials found a protected slow loris being used for tourist photos, according to a report released Tuesday. The operation in Muang district followed complaints that a protected wild animal was being brought out for pictures in exchange for money.
Chalermpong Saengdee, the Phuket MP for Constituency 2, said he monitored the arrest operation. Officers from the Khao Phra Thaeo Non-Hunting Area worked with Karon police and administrative officials in the raid.
Seized items, resistance and legal action
Officials found one slow loris, also known in Thai as a “nang ai,” in the suspect’s possession. They also seized one shoulder bag, two knives and one steel pry bar.
During the arrest, the suspect resisted and tried to assault officials, the report said. He was informed of his rights and taken into custody for legal action under the 2019 Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act and related laws.
Authorities said illegal possession of a protected wild animal carries a maximum fine of 500,000 baht, imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
The seized slow loris was sent to the Phang Nga Wildlife Breeding Center for care and rehabilitation before any consideration of release back into the wild.
Source: https://www.thaipost.net/district-news/987080/
