Authorities arrested man who illegally owns serval cats, blue monkeys worth almost RM200,000

SERI KEMBANGAN - The authorities have detained a man on March 9, who illegally owns several African wild cats (serval cat) and blue monkeys worth almost RM200,000

The Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) director-general Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim said the man was arrested through the Khazanah Integrated Operation (OBK) by Perhilitan and the police at 9:30pm.

He said the inspection at the house found three serval cats and two blue monkeys which are believed to originate from the continent of Africa.

"According to information received, one serval cat is worth between RM40,000 to RM60,000, while the monkey is worth between RM4,000 to RM8,000.

"Preliminary investigation found that the owner of the premise failed to display the license for all the wildlife involved.

"The suspect claimed to have protected wild animals throughout the interrogation," he told Sinar Harian.

He said all the wild animals were brought to Perhilitan headquarters for further investigation under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010.

Abdul Kadir said, his party is still investigating how the protected wild animals were brought into the country.

"We take the issue of wildlife sales and containment seriously, and will continue to operate through OBK to protect wild animals,” he said.

Perhilitan also warns that poaching activities, encroachment in various wildlife habitats is a criminal offence and those who engaged in them will face legal action.

"Any complaints and information can be directed to Perhilitan hotline 1-800- 88-5151 or e-complaint on the website, www.wildlife.gov.my, ”he said.