US nationals charged after stunt at Japanese zoo prompts security overhaul
Two American visitors face obstruction charges after one breached the enclosure of Punch, a macaque who gained global attention online, while the other recorded the event.
Two US nationals have been arrested at Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan after one man jumped into the enclosure of Punch, a viral macaque, while the other filmed the incident. The jumper, wearing a costume promoting a cryptocurrency, was apprehended by zookeepers without injuring the animal. Both men, aged 24 and 27, have been charged with forcible obstruction of business and have denied the allegations.
The incident occurred on Sunday morning when one suspect, who claimed to be a 24-year-old college student, scaled a fence to enter the enclosure. The second suspect, identified as a 27-year-old singer, remained outside to record the event. Police confirmed that no monkeys were injured and that the individuals were quickly led out by zoo staff. However, the zoo has filed a damage report with authorities and is implementing immediate countermeasures.
Ichikawa City Zoo announced on Monday that it has installed intrusion prevention nets and expanded viewing restriction areas around the enclosure. The institution is also considering a full ban on filming in the vicinity and has temporarily put requests to film from YouTubers on hold. These measures follow a pattern of security breaches at zoos housing animals that have become internet sensations, including a recent fine imposed on a man who entered the enclosure of a pygmy hippo in Thailand.
Punch, a nine-month-old macaque, gained viral fame earlier this year after footage showed him hugging a stuffed toy orangutan given by keepers after he was rejected by his mother. The zoo has regularly shared social media updates on his integration with other macaques, noting recent progress in bonding with his peers. Despite the high-profile nature of the animal, the zoo stated that the suspects did not get close to the animals before being apprehended.
The exact ages and professions of the suspects are based on their own claims and have not been independently verified by police. The specific financial damages incurred by the zoo have not been disclosed. The arrest highlights the growing regulatory and security challenges faced by institutions managing animals that achieve significant online popularity.
