Monkey Troubles in Lopburi, Thailand
Lopburi, a tourist town in Thailand, is facing a unique challenge with rampaging monkey gangs causing havoc in the area. These monkeys are known for their disruptive behavior, including vandalizing property and stealing from locals and tourists.
The Monkey ‘Capital’ of Lopburi
Located approximately 90 miles north of Bangkok, Lopburi has gained notoriety for its large monkey population. To address the issue, local police are resorting to using tranquilizer guns and wooden catapults to manage the mischievous primates.
Police Measures Against the Monkeys
Police Major General Apirak Wechkanchana expressed concerns about the growing threat posed by the monkeys to both tourists and residents. Officers are now equipped with slingshots to deter the monkeys from causing trouble.
- A special police unit has been established to combat the monkey problem.
- The unit uses slingshots as a deterrent and aims to prevent theft and vandalism by the monkeys.
Additionally, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation is actively involved in capturing and relocating the most troublesome monkeys. One of the captured monkeys, known as ‘Ai Krao’, was sedated and moved to a different location.
Local Dilemma and Tourism Impact
Despite the challenges posed by the monkeys, locals are reluctant to completely remove them from the town. Interestingly, these mischievous monkeys also attract tourists who enjoy feeding them, contributing to the town’s tourism appeal.
