In some parts the world, speaking out against animal poaching can cost you your freedom. The Wildlife Friends Foundation, an animal sanctuary founded in Thailand by Edwin Wiek, was raided on February 13 by sixty armed agents. Wiek and his wife were arrested on alleged suspicions of containing animals in inhumane conditions, a charge that coincides with Wiek’s recent vocal condemnations of illegal elephant poaching in the region. Citing corrupt politicians and businessmen as perpetrators of animal smuggling and killing may be the reason for his frequent detainments as well as the confiscation of sheltered animals; more than 100 animals have been taken from the zoo by government officials, animals that were being housed and cared for by Edwin and his team.
This little-known issue bodes negative consequences for animal welfare in an extremely biodiverse region of the world. Please voice your concern by signing this petition.
Thai officials target wildlife rescue center Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, seize animals from CATinWATER on Vimeo.
