Thai National Arrested After Scaling Enclosure of Viral Pygmy Hippo Moo Deng at Khao Kheow Open Zoo

A Thai national faces trespassing charges after climbing into the enclosure of viral pygmy hippo Moo Deng. Zoo officials confirm the animals are unharmed.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 8:22 AM EDT

Source: The information for this report was sourced from PEOPLE

Security Breach During Evening Maintenance

The Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi Province faced a significant security lapse on Tuesday when an unidentified Thai national managed to enter a prohibited animal habitat. According to a formal statement from the zoo, the intruder targeted a specific window of time at approximately 5:00 p.m. local time, when staff members were preoccupied with their routine evening duties. This lapse allowed the individual to scale the perimeter of the pygmy hippo enclosure, an area strictly off-limits to the public for the protection of both the animals and visitors. Zoo Director Narongwit Chodchoy noted that while the breach was brief, it has prompted an immediate review of security protocols during shift transitions.

Intruder Captures Close-Range Footage of Viral Star

Surveillance video obtained by local authorities reveals the man utilized a tablet device to film and photograph Moo Deng and her mother, Jona, from within the enclosure. Despite the close proximity, the intruder did not attempt to make physical contact with the hippos, which likely prevented a defensive reaction from the animals. Moo Deng, who achieved global fame in late 2024, has become a major draw for the zoo, leading to increased crowds and heightened concerns regarding visitor behavior. Animal keeper Autthapol “Benz” Nundee remarked on social media following the event that the man was fortunate to have escaped without being bitten, as hippos can be highly territorial when cornered.

Legal Consequences and Bail Release

Following the incident, the Royal Thai Police arrested the man on charges of trespassing. Director Narongwit confirmed to the Associated Press that the suspect has since been released on bail while authorities continue to investigate his specific motives for entering the habitat. The zoo has taken a firm stance on the matter, declaring that they will pursue legal action without exception against any individual who exhibits risky behavior or violates established safety rules. The investigation is now focused on whether the act was a premeditated stunt for social media engagement or a spontaneous lapse in judgment by a fan of the viral pygmy hippo.