Thailand: Two Baby Orangutans Rescued From Smuggler in Dramatic Gas Station Bust

Thailand Makes Major Bust in Orangutan Smuggling Ring A joint operation between Thai, US, and Dutch authorities, supported by the UN, has resulted in the arrest of a 47-year-old man suspected of trafficking two infant orangutans. The dramatic arrest unfolded at a Bangkok gas station, where the suspect was apprehended as he attempted to sell the endangered primates to a customer. Police reports indicate that orangutans are often sold for nearly $9,000 each on the black market. "The suspect was taken into custody without incident," stated a spokesperson for the Thai Crime Suppression Bureau. The rescued orangutans, now under the care of Thailand's Department of National Parks, represent a victory in the ongoing fight against the illegal wildlife trade. This case underscores Thailand's significant role as a transit hub for smugglers, emphasizing the need for continued international cooperation to combat this global issue. The successful rescue offers a glimmer of hope for the conservation of these critically endangered creatures.