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Endangered Primates Seized from Traveler at Bangkok Airport
13 Feb
Summary
- Indian traveler detained at Bangkok airport with two protected monkeys.
- Monkeys were identified as endangered Indochinese lutungs.
- Man faced charges for illegal export and undeclared goods.
On February 3, airport officials at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport detained an Indian traveler attempting to smuggle two endangered Indochinese lutungs. These silvered leaf monkeys, a strictly protected species, were found concealed within the passenger's luggage.
The interception occurred during routine passenger screening, with authorities acting on potential suspicious behavior or prior intelligence. The animals were estimated to be worth around 100,000 baht.
Santanee Phairattanakorn confirmed the discovery, stating the primates were hidden amongst personal items. The suspect was taken into custody and now faces charges under the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act of 2019 and the Customs Act of 2017.
Authorities emphasized the international protection of the Indochinese lutung, underscoring the seriousness of wildlife trafficking. The rescued monkeys have been handed over to wildlife specialists for necessary health assessments and rehabilitation.
