Japan zoo may ban photos near viral monkey Punch after intrusion by 2 Americans

The Ichikawa City Zoo in Chiba prefecture is considering a complete ban on photography and filming around the enclosure of a viral Japanese macaque named Punch. This potential ban follows an intrusion incident on Sunday where two men, claiming to be US nationals, were arrested. In response to the incident, the zoo has already increased the buffer zone around Punch's enclosure and installed anti-intrusion netting. Punch gained international attention after going viral for clinging to an orangutan plushie, having been abandoned by his mother.

Two American nationals were arrested in Japan on Sunday for allegedly breaking into the enclosure of Punch, a young macaque at Ichikawa City Zoo. Videos suggest one suspect, dressed in an emoji costume, climbed into the enclosure and dropped a toy, startling the monkeys. Zoo staff intervened, and authorities confirmed no animals were harmed. The men, identified as a 24-year-old student and a 27-year-old singer, were arrested on suspicion of forcible obstruction of business. The zoo has implemented enhanced security measures following the incident.

Two American nationals were arrested at a Japanese zoo after one of them jumped into the enclosure of Punch, a macaque who gained internet fame for his attachment to a soft toy. The incident occurred at the zoo, which has been sharing social media updates about Punch since he moved into a shared enclosure in January. Zoo workers apprehended the men quickly, and they did not get close to the animals. In response to this and other similar incidents involving viral animals, the zoo is considering a full ban on filming around the monkey enclosure and has temporarily halted filming requests from YouTubers. Measures are also being implemented to enhance the enclosure's security, including expanding viewing restrictions and installing intrusion prevention nets.