Two American Nationals Arrested After Incident at Ichikawa Zoo Monkey Enclosure
Ichikawa, Japan — On March 23, 2025, two American nationals were arrested at Ichikawa City Zoo in Ichikawa, Japan, following an incident involving a monkey enclosure. The Ichikawa Police Department identified the suspects as Reid Jahnai Dayson, 24, a university student, and Neal Jabahri Duan, 27, who identified himself as a singer.
Incident Details
According to police, Dayson climbed over a fence and dropped into a dry moat surrounding the monkey exhibit, causing the animals to scatter. Duan allegedly filmed the act. Images posted on social media showed a person in a costume with a smiley face head and sunglasses inside the enclosure.
The men did not come close to the animals and were quickly apprehended by zoo officials.
The suspects face charges of forcible obstruction of business. Both individuals have denied the allegations. Police reported that the men initially lacked identification and allegedly gave false names.
Zoo Response
Starting Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Ichikawa Zoo will restrict access to the enclosure housing Punch, a baby Japanese macaque. The zoo stated it will install intrusion prevention nets, begin permanent patrols, and is discussing banning video recording at the site.
The zoo reported that no abnormalities have been observed among the animals following the incident. The zoo issued an apology and stated it had filed a police report, adding that it would continue to prioritize animal safety and address rule violations.
Background
Punch, also referred to as Panchi-kun, was born in July 2024 and rescued after being rejected by his mother. He was hand-reared at the zoo and gained online attention following images of him clutching an IKEA plush orangutan. The zoo reported a subsequent increase in visitors due to his popularity.
Socialization and Public Response
Zoo officials reported gradual progress in Punch's socialization within his troop, noting increased interactions and experiences. On Thursday, March 20, a video circulated showing an adult monkey interacting with Punch. The zoo clarified that this was a typical disciplinary action, not serious aggression, and that the interaction was likely a protective response from a mother whose baby Punch was attempting to communicate with.
In response to public interest, IKEA Japan, through its president and chief sustainability officer Petra Fare, donated replacement orangutan plushies and additional toys. Ichikawa City Mayor Ko Tanaka announced this donation.