Japan Police Arrest Two Americans After Zoo Stunt Near Baby Macaque

Two American nationals were arrested in Japan after one entered a monkey enclosure at a zoo in Chiba Prefecture, police said Monday. One of the men, who identified himself as a 24-year-old college student, was arrested Sunday after climbing over a fence and dropping into a dry moat surrounding the monkey exhibit. The other man, who was filming the act, identified himself as a 27-year-old singer.

The arrests followed a stunt at Ichikawa City Zoo where a baby macaque named Punch has become a global internet sensation this year. Police said the 24-year-old climbed the fence and entered the enclosure area. The 27-year-old was arrested for his role in filming the incident. Both men are U.S. nationals.

Visitors have gathered at the zoo in recent weeks to see the baby macaque. The facility has drawn increased attention since Punch gained online popularity earlier this year. Police confirmed the arrests took place on Sunday and Monday. No injuries were reported during the incident.