15-11-2024 (BANGKOK) A man in Thailand faces criminal charges after allegedly adopting dogs from rescue centres only to kill and eat them, prompting widespread outrage and calls for stricter animal protection laws.
The Watchdog Thailand Foundation revealed that the accused, identified as Ache Wuyi, a member of the Akha ethnic group, systematically adopted several dogs, including ones named Sushi, Bear, Lucky, and Sumo, before allegedly slaughtering them for consumption.
The foundation’s investigation, conducted in partnership with Mae Chan Police, led to the suspect’s arrest and subsequent confession. Lieutenant Colonel Kiatisuk Chitrprasan, leading the investigation, confirmed that Wuyi attempted to justify his actions by claiming the dogs had exhibited behavioural problems and were difficult to rehome.
“This case has exposed serious vulnerabilities in our pet adoption system,” said Dr Somchai Rattanachai, director of the Watchdog Thailand Foundation. “We are calling for immediate reforms to strengthen the screening process for potential adopters and implement more severe penalties for acts of animal cruelty.”
Under current Thai legislation, Wuyi faces a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 40,000 baht if convicted of animal cruelty charges. However, animal rights advocates argue these penalties are insufficient to deter such offences.
The case has sent shockwaves through Thailand’s animal welfare community, with numerous advocacy groups joining calls for legislative reform. The incident has also highlighted the urgent need for more rigorous background checks during the pet adoption process.
“This tragic incident serves as a wake-up call for all animal welfare organisations,” said Marina Thompson, an international animal rights consultant based in Bangkok. “We must establish more robust verification procedures to ensure our rescued animals truly find safe, loving homes.”
The foundation has announced plans to launch a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about responsible pet adoption and the importance of thorough screening processes. They are also lobbying parliament for amendments to existing animal welfare laws to include mandatory background checks for adopters and enhanced penalties for offenders.
