CHONBURI, Thailand – Security officials at Khao Kheow Open Zoo have filed a police report against a Chinese tourist who was caught on video using a slingshot within the zoo grounds, near the tiger enclosure, Oct 22.
Based on the video that went viral online, the security team has identified the slingshot user as a Chinese female tourist. The incident occurred on October 20.
A visitor at Khao Kheow Open Zoo captured a video of the Chinese tourist, holding a slingshot and firing it, though the exact target is unclear. Given that monkeys inhabit the zoo freely, and concerned about potential violations of wildlife laws, the zoo director ordered a police report to be filed.
The zoo authorities will also be contacting the tour company that organized the trip for this group of Chinese tourists to gather more information.
Zoo director Narongwit Chodchoi confirmed that he had seen the video and was taking the matter seriously. He revealed that the zoo would be sending letters to tour companies to warn them about the incident and to ensure that their clients refrain from bringing slingshots into the zoo or harming the animals.
“If any visitors witness any acts of cruelty towards animals or damage to our property, please report it to a staff member immediately. Prompt action will be taken”, he said.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo has installed numerous CCTV cameras throughout the park and has increased the number of staff monitoring the animals.
The zoo has seen a visitor boom after Moo Deng, its pygmy hippo, became an internet sensation in September 2024. Viral photos and videos of her have attracted visitors from around the globe. (TNA)
