Thai police have arrested a 37-year-old woman in Nakhon Phanom province, northeastern Thailand, for allegedly trading protected wildlife furs and parts. The raid on a traditional medicine and souvenir shop comes after an investigation into online wildlife trafficking, revealing items smuggled from Laos. The arrest was initiated under a Criminal Court warrant issued on May 22.
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The raid, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Anek Taosuphap, resulted in the seizure of over 100 items, including tiger skins, leopard skins, and pangolin scales. Authorities identified the suspect as Kulkanlaya, and alleged that she used the shop as a front for the illegal wildlife trade. The investigation traced online sales of protected wildlife products back to the shop.
The shop is located in That Phanom, an area frequented by tourists visiting the Phra That Phanom temple. Police alleged that the wildlife products were smuggled from Laos and sold both online and directly to tourists. During questioning, the suspect reportedly confessed to purchasing wildlife remains from Laotian suppliers for resale.
All confiscated items and the suspect have been handed over to the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division for further legal proceedings. Experts emphasize the need for stricter border controls and increased awareness to combat wildlife trafficking effectively.
Looking Ahead, investigations continue as authorities aim to dismantle similar operations and curb cross-border wildlife smuggling. Enhanced collaboration with neighboring countries is expected to strengthen efforts in wildlife protection.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 27 May 2026
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