In response to the escalating issue of aggressive macaques in Lop Buri, park officials and local authorities have taken decisive action. Over the course of three days, twenty-three of these primates have been captured by park officials, marking the beginning of an operation aimed at relocating them to a shelter in Nakhon Nayok province.
Furthermore, in a bid to tackle the problem directly, the Muang district police of Lop Buri have formed a specialized unit equipped with slingshots. Their mission: to deter aggressive primates from harassing passers-by and pilfering food.
Recent developments saw a significant capture – an alpha male known as “The Beard” was apprehended in the Ratchadamnoen area, a hotspot for monkey activity. However, efforts to capture another alpha were met with cunning evasion tactics, as the primate sought refuge under the roof of a nearby building.
During these operations, officials encountered vocal protests from captured monkeys, drawing the attention of nearby troops. Faced with the risk of a hostile confrontation, officials had to withdraw. It was observed that the alphas displayed remarkable intelligence, avoiding baited traps even when hunger loomed.
Pol Maj-Gen Apirak Wechkanchana, the provincial commander, emphasized the use of non-lethal measures by the newly established monkey control police unit. Armed solely with slingshots, their aim is to deter without causing harm.
Acknowledging the challenge, one patrolman admitted that dealing with the monkeys is no easy feat. Nonetheless, he affirmed his commitment to safeguarding the public from any form of primate harassment.
