Illegal wildlife trade uncovered in Ratchaburi luxury home raid
A luxury riverside home in Ratchaburi, Thailand, became the focal point of a major investigation when police discovered over 50 rare South American wildlife species illegally housed on the property.
The operation, conducted by police and wildlife officials, exposed a shocking black market trade facilitated through social media platforms.
Yesterday, December 12, a team led by Arun Wachirasrisukanya, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division, and Aphisan Chairat, Chief Inspector of Division 5, executed a search warrant at the residence located by the Mae Klong River in Khung Krat Phin, Ratchaburi. The raid followed credible reports of illegal possession of exotic animals.
Upon arrival, they were met by Tong, who identified himself as the homeowner. The subsequent search revealed numerous rare and endangered species from various parts of the world, confined in cages within the property.
Among the creatures found were cotton-top tamarins, squirrel monkeys, De Brazza’s monkeys, gibbons, marmosets, and Geoffroy’s monkeys. Additionally, police discovered Aldabra tortoises, Sulcata tortoises, African grey parrots, Toco toucans, and various snake species.
The estimated value of these animals exceeded 3 million baht (US$88,112). Of particular concern were the cotton-top tamarins and African grey parrots, both of which are listed as endangered species under CITES Appendix I.
“These animals are highly valuable and rare, with some species like the cotton-top tamarin originating from Colombia in South America,” reported an official involved in the investigation. Eight cotton-top tamarins were found, each valued at approximately 150,000 baht (US$4,405).
Squirrel monkeys, another South American species, numbered ten and were priced around 75,000 baht (US$2,202) each. Two De Brazza’s monkeys were also discovered, each with a market value of about 300,000 baht (US$8,811), while the gibbons were priced at 30,000 baht (US$880) each. Marmosets were found in pairs, valued at 50,000 baht (US$880) each.
During the investigation, Tong admitted to purchasing these exotic animals through a Facebook group. He intended to keep them as pets for personal amusement, without obtaining the necessary legal permits, reported KhaoSod.
Consequently, charges were filed against him for illegal possession of controlled wildlife. He was subsequently taken into custody by Division 5 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division for further legal proceedings.
