CHIANG MAI, Thailand – A Chinese tourist was caught on CCTV sexually harassing a female university intern at the Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium on Thursday morning, sparking outrage and immediate action from staff, who detained the suspect and handed him over to police.
The incident occurred as the young woman, a student undergoing internship training at the aquarium, was feeding turtles along a public walkway. According to the footage, the man suddenly approached her from behind and groped her buttocks before casually walking away as if nothing had happened.
Shocked and visibly distressed, the victim alerted zoo staff, who quickly reviewed surveillance footage and located the suspect. He was apprehended on the premises and held until officers from Phuping Rajanivej Police Station arrived at the scene.
Initial checks revealed that the man was not carrying a passport or any form of identification. He claimed to have left his documents at his hotel and also told officers he was unwell, speaking in a disjointed manner. Police are planning to verify his identity at his accommodation before proceeding with formal charges.
Chiang Mai Zoo officials, along with the victim, have vowed to pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law to ensure the incident does not set a precedent or tarnish the safety of the facility.
“This kind of behavior is completely unacceptable,” a zoo representative said. “We will support the victim in every way and cooperate fully with law enforcement.”
The case has drawn widespread attention online, with many netizens calling for harsher penalties for tourists who violate local laws and exploit their presence in Thailand.
