Phuket police arrest slow loris tout in Patong

PHUKET: Police arrested a man on Saturday night for illegal possession of a slow loris, which he was letting tourists hold for paid photo opportunities in Patong.

“We arrested 23-year-old Natthapol Kensing on Bangla Road at about 7pm. We confiscated the slow loris, as well as his equipment, including the camera,” said Lt Col Sutthichai Thianpho of the Patong Police.

“Mr Natthapol will be charged for illegal possession of a protected species, inflicting harm on an animal and causing a public nuisance,” said Col Sutthichai.

Patong Police have been actively clamping down on touts exploiting animals for profit in the entertainment town, following tourist complaints (story here), negative posts on social media sites and growing international condemnation of the practice.

“These touts still keep coming back, but we will keep arresting them until they get the message. This kind of business is unacceptable,” said Col Sutthichai.

“I would like to thank everyone who has passed on information to us about these perpetrators – please keep your eyes open.”

The rescued slow loris was taken to a wildlife sanctuary in Phang Nga, confirmed Col Sutthichai.

— Kongleaphy Keam