Two hunters injured in shootout with rangers and arrested for possession of dead langur monkeys

Two hunters in Phetchaburi have been left with injuries following a clash with forest rangers, leading to their arrests. They were found to have six dead grey langurs, local authorities reported today.

Forest rangers had been conducting a patrol in Huay Kum forest, close to Phu Sai in the Moo 3 village, situated in tambon Huay Mae Phriang of the Kaeng Krachan district, according to the Kaeng Krachan National Park chief, Somjate Janthana. During the routine inspection, the rangers heard gunshots in the area around 7:30pm, prompting them to investigate.

As they ventured further into the forest toward the noise, they came across two men who were carrying firearms. When the rangers ordered the men to stand down to allow themselves to be searched, the suspects began firing at the rangers. This turn of events resulted in a shootout, leaving the two hunters injured.

Once the men were subdued, the rangers managed to confiscate the six grey langur monkeys that had been killed, in addition to two shotguns, an air gun, a flashlight and a backpack. The suspects were then extracted from the forest area and transported to Kaeng Krachan Hospital where they received medical treatment for their gunshot wounds. They are now awaiting legal proceedings.

Grey langurs, also known as Hanuman langurs, are native to the Indian subcontinent and are deemed sacred by some because of their association with the Hindu deity Hanuman. These monkeys are an important part of the ecosystem, as they help disperse seeds and pollinate flowers whilst feeding. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has declared grey langurs as a species of “least concern,” which means that they are not currently under threat of extinction. However, the illegal hunting of these animals remains an ongoing concern for wildlife conservationists and park authorities.

Incidents such as this highlight the ongoing battle faced by forest rangers and conservationists in protecting wildlife in their natural habitats. Patrols like the one carried out by the rangers in this instance are crucial in curbing illegal hunting activities and helping to maintain healthy ecosystems in national parks.

Throughout recent years, there has been a determined effort by authorities in Thailand and other countries to protect the delicate balance of ecosystems by investing in park rangers and increasing patrols. Various public awareness campaigns have also been launched to educate the public on the importance of wildlife conservation and the role each individual can play in ensuring the survival of endangered species.

It remains to be seen what penalties the arrested hunters will face, and if this incident will serve as a deterrent to other would-be hunters. The importance of conserving wildlife for future generations is an ongoing discussion that will continue to require global cooperation and commitment.