"Truly Appalling Behaviour" — Tourists Using Slingshot At Thai Zoo Reported To Police
A video of the incident went viral, with netizens condemning the tourists' actions.
By May Vin Ang — 25 Oct 2024, 11:05 AM
Khao Kheow Open Zoo has filed a police report against a group of tourists who were seen in a TikTok video using a slingshot within the zoo premises
The zoo said it has filed a complaint at the Sri Racha police station and they are urgently investigating the matter
According to Khaosod English, zoo director Narungwit Chodchoy said they are currently in contact with the tour company and the video's original uploader to aid the investigation.
He added that he had reviewed the video but noted that it does not clearly show what the tourists were shooting at.
However, if it is found that the tourists were shooting at and hit an animal, it would be considered a violation under the Prevention of Cruelty and Animal Welfare Act, he said.
The director also reminded visitors to behave appropriately and refrain from throwing objects at the animals at the zoo as it could injure them
"The most important thing is that we must respect and have good manners when visiting these animals. We shouldn't shout or throw objects at them. These behaviours are not appropriate for zoo visits, and we must respect the rules of the place," he said.
Narungwit had previously issued a similar warning when visitors threw shells and splashed water at the zoo's celebrity baby pygmy hippopotamus, Moo Deng, while she was sleeping because they wanted to see her run and play.
In response, the zoo has limited the time visitors can spend with the baby hippo, installed CCTV cameras around various exhibit areas, and stationed animal caretakers during peak visitor times.
Narungwit added that anyone who witnesses any acts that could be considered animal abuse should notify the staff immediately so that they may intervene.
