A 63-year-old man in southern Thailand has died after being attacked by a wild pig-tailed macaque that entered his home, local authorities confirmed. The incident in Yala Province's Betong District is the latest in a series of confrontations between residents and increasingly aggressive monkeys in the region.
The Fatal Attack
The victim, identified as Chaiphum Sa-eo, was found dead in his home in Tambon Than Nam Thip on Friday, December 5, 2025. Police discovered the man's body slumped against a wall, with multiple bite marks. He was found clutching a metal rod, indicating he had tried to defend himself.
According to reports, the male pig-tailed macaque had been terrorizing the neighborhood for weeks and had bitten Chaiphum on the shoulder approximately ten days before the fatal encounter. Police Major Jakkarin Laksana of Betong Police Station stated that footprints of the monkey were visible in the dried blood on the floor of the victim's home.
Police Response and Shoot-to-Kill Order
Upon investigating the scene, officers found the monkey perched on the rafters of the house. Authorities have issued a shoot-to-kill notice for the animal, citing the extreme danger it poses to the community.
"The monkey will be killed if it is seen," Police Major Jakkarin confirmed. "The danger that it could attack more people is too high." The monkey's body has been sent for testing to determine if it carried diseases like rabies.
A Widespread Problem Across Thailand
This tragic event highlights a growing national issue with wild monkeys encroaching on human settlements. In several Thai provinces, particularly Lopburi, large troops of invasive rhesus macaques have taken over urban areas, damaging property, stealing food, and attacking residents and tourists.
Local governments have struggled to manage the populations. While some towns have initiated sterilization programs, others have resorted to relocating problematic troops, often facing opposition from residents who view the monkeys as sacred or good for tourism.
Ongoing Safety Measures
The incident has heightened fear among local residents in Betong District. Police are actively tracking the aggressive monkey and have warned the public to exercise caution, avoid feeding wild monkeys, and report any aggressive behavior immediately.
*Source: The Mirror, Daily Mail, and Thai PBS World.*
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