Court Orders 10,000 Baht Fine for Man Who Jumped into Moo Deng Dwarf Hippopotamus Enclosure at Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Khao Kheow Open Zoo released a summary of the court verdict concerning a man who jumped into the "Moo Deng" dwarf hippopotamus enclosure. The court ordered a fine of 10,000 baht.

A tourist secretly climbed into the "Moo Deng" dwarf hippopotamus enclosure intending to record content at 17:00 on 17 March 2026. Subsequently, security officers detained the offender and handed him over to the police.Read the news: Don't do this. Man jumps into "Moo Deng" enclosure to record content, zoo detains and hands him to police.)

Most recently, on 8 April 2026, the Facebook pageKhao Kheow Open Zoorevealed a summary of the court ruling in the case of trespassing into the dwarf hippopotamus (Moo Deng) enclosure.

It stated that following an incident where a person violated rules by trespassing into the Moo Deng enclosure on 17 March 2026, Khao Kheow Open Zoo would like to share the case outcome to raise awareness and prevent recurrence.

Summary of the court verdict

• Incident: An individual climbed into the dwarf hippopotamus (Moo Deng) exhibit.
• Judgment: The Chonburi Provincial Court found the defendant guilty (case number Or.1549/2569).
• Penalty: The court imposed a 10,000 baht fine (the defendant admitted guilt and has paid the fine).

Visitor precautions

The zoo remains open as usual and emphasizes to all visitors

• that climbing or entering animal enclosures is strictly prohibited.
• Visitors must strictly follow warning signs and staff instructions.
• Together, let us care for the welfare of wildlife so that “Moo Deng” and all animals remain happy and safe.

"Enjoy their cuteness from a distance and respect the rules for everyone’s safety."

Information source: Khao Kheow Open Zoo Facebook page