Illegal wildlife dealer snared in sting operation
Authorities in Chaiyaphum province struck a blow against the rampant trade in illegal wildlife yesterday when a dealer in endangered birds walked into their trap.
The Department of National Parks’ Special Operation Task Force set up a sting to buy protected birds from a vendor named Piyanat. 
The sting operation came after an investigation revealed Piyanat was selling Asian barred owlets, spotted owlets, lineated barbets, white-rumped shama, common hill myna, crested goshawks and red-whiskered bulbuls via a Facebook account.
Officials posing as customers arranged to buy several of the birds, before swooping to arrest Piyanat with eight endangered birds in his possession. He now faces charges that carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years and/or fine of up to Bt1 million.
Local police have collected evidence and equipment used by Piyanat and will prosecute him on charges of violating the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act.