Instagram photo of Rihanna with endangered animal: Duo arrested in Thailand

Instagram photo of Rihanna with endangered animal: Duo arrested in Thailand

Authorities in Phuket have arrested a 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy who brought out a loris for Rihanna to take a selfie with.

The star had posted the picture of herself with the endangered animal on Instagram, tipping off authorities in Phuket, who moved to arrest the two.

Two lorises were confiscated from the pair, who now face charges of possession of protected animals.

They could be jailed for up to four years and fined up to $1,600.

The exploitation of rare animals for tourism is a widespread problem in Thailand.

Animal handlers approach tourists to offer photo opportunities for a fee. Among the animals often used in this manner are elephants, orang utans and lorises.


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