Two American nationals have been arrested in Japan after a stunt at a zoo enclosure housing Punch, the baby macaque who captured hearts worldwide earlier this year. The incident occurred at Ichikawa City Zoo, near Tokyo, where Punch has become a major tourist draw following his rise to viral fame.
Japanese police say one of the men climbed over a fence and dropped into a dry moat inside the monkey enclosure, while the second man filmed the act. Social media footage showed the intruder wearing a costume with a large smiley‑face head and sunglasses, causing the monkeys to scatter in alarm. Zoo staff quickly intervened and escorted the man out; no animals were harmed.
Authorities identified the men as a 24‑year‑old university student and a 27‑year‑old singer. Both were arrested on suspicion of forcibly obstructing business, a charge they reportedly deny. Police also allege the pair initially tried to mislead officers about their identities and did not have formal identification on them at the time.
Punch became an internet sensation earlier in 2026 after the zoo shared images of the baby macaque clinging to a plush toy for comfort, following reports he had been rejected by his mother. The story sparked a wave of online support under the hashtag #HangInTherePunch and led to a surge in domestic and international visitors.
In response to the intrusion, Ichikawa City Zoo announced new restrictions around Punch’s enclosure, including the installation of intrusion‑prevention nets and permanent patrols. Zoo officials also said they are considering limiting or banning video recording in the area to prevent similar incidents.
The arrests have reignited debate in Japan about tourist behaviour at popular attractions, particularly as the country continues to see record visitor numbers. Zoo officials stressed that Punch and the other animals are safe, adding that “no abnormalities have been observed among the animals” following the incident.
