Phuket-
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has informed the Phuket Express of the arrest of an Israeli businessman in Kathu due to the illegal possession of wildlife. On Thursday, April 25th, authorities apprehended a suspect identified only as Mr. Z, a 61-year-old Israeli national, at his residence. They discovered three macaques, appearing to be in poor health, confined within a cage.
Upon questioning, Mr. Z admitted to the police that he lacked the necessary legal documentation for the monkeys. He professed ignorance of the requirement for such animals to be registered. Subsequently, Mr. Z was escorted to the Kathu Police Station, where he will face legal repercussions for the unauthorized possession of protected animals.
The law stipulates that the offense may result in imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, a fine not exceeding 500,000 baht, or both. Meanwhile, the three macaques are currently receiving care at the Khao Phra Thaeo Nature and Wildlife Study Center. The Phuket Express has learned from officers that Mr. Z is allegedly well-known in the Patong business community.
