Wildlife Officials Probe Origin of Lar Gibbon in Actor Vikram's Video

Tamil Nadu wildlife authorities are investigating the source of a lar gibbon spotted in a video posted by actor Chiyaan Vikram. The popular actor shared footage on social media playing with the primate.

The lar gibbon is native to Southeast Asia. It is listed as a Schedule IV protected species under India's Wildlife Protection Act. Possessing an exotic animal requires valid ownership documents and legal import records.

Chennai Wildlife Warden Kulal Yogesh Vilas stated that officials will send a forest ranger to verify the primate's origin. They will check purchase details and mandatory compliance certificates. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is assisting state authorities in tracing the procurement route. The forest department inquiry will confirm whether the owners have valid paperwork or if the animal entered the country illegally.