BANGKOK — In a startling case of wildlife trafficking, an Indian tourist was apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to smuggle two rare, live primates out of Thailand. The rescue occurred during a joint operation between Thai Customs and the Wildlife Checkpoint late on the night of February 3, 2026.
The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Mr. Karthick, was preparing to board Thai Airways flight TG351 destined for Mumbai. Upon an X-ray inspection of his luggage, officials discovered two Indochinese Lutungs (also known as Germain’s Langurs) concealed beneath layers of clothing and personal belongings.
1. The Rescue and the Value of the “Cargo”
The primates, which are highly protected under international law, are estimated to be worth approximately 100,000 baht (nearly ₹2.9 lakh) on the black market.
- The Operation: Santanee Phairattanakorn, Director of the Passenger Inspection Customs Office, confirmed that the animals were seized at approximately 11:30 PM.
- The Condition: Images released by Thailand’s Department of National Parks (DNP) show the monkeys huddled inside the suitcase. Fortunately, they were found alive and have since been handed over to wildlife specialists for medical evaluation.
2. Legal Consequences: Facing Severe Charges
Mr. Karthick is currently in Thai custody and faces prosecution under two major pieces of legislation:
- Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act (2019): Specifically targets the unauthorized export of protected species.
- Customs Act (2017): Addresses the attempt to move goods out of the country without following official declaration protocols.
In Thailand, wildlife smuggling can result in heavy fines and significant prison time, as the country seeks to shed its reputation as a global hub for the illegal animal trade.
3. Public Outcry: “They Could Have Died”
The news triggered a wave of indignation on social media platforms like Facebook and X. Users expressed horror at the conditions the monkeys were subjected to, with many noting that the primates likely would have suffocated during the long-haul flight to Mumbai.
“Why are you doing this? You should go straight to jail,” wrote one user, while others questioned the motive behind trying to keep such specialized wild animals as pets.
4. Spotlight on the Species: The Indochinese Lutung
The Indochinese Lutung (Trachypithecus germaini), or Germain’s Langur, is a rare find in the wild.
- Appearance: They are known for their distinctive round faces and long tails. While adults are grey or blackish, their infants are born with bright orange fur that gradually darkens.
- Habitat: These arboreal monkeys are native to the evergreen and deciduous forests of Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
- Diet: Their diet is highly specific, consisting mostly of shoots, leaves, and fruits, making them notoriously difficult to care for in domestic settings.