Frank Cuesta, the well-known Spanish naturalist and former television presenter, was arrested on February 27, 2025, by the Department of National Parks of Thailand, primarily for the illegal possession of protected wildlife species within his animal sanctuary, Libertad, located in Kanchanaburi Province. The arrest came after authorities acted on anonymous complaints made on February 14, alleging Cuesta possessed wild animals without proper permits.
During the inspection, police discovered nine small-clawed otters and one Southeast Asian python, neither of which had the necessary documentation to confirm their legal possession. Cuesta asserted he obtained the otters from local markets over time, claiming he had been diligent about following the required regulations. Unfortunately for him, these claims did not hold up as the inspection revealed the absence of permits as stipulated under Thailand's Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562.
This incident adds to Cuesta's legal troubles stemming from three lawsuits filed against him by his ex-wife, Yuyee, which accuse him of tax fraud, illegal work, defamation, and mismanagement of animals at the sanctuary. Just days before his arrest, Cuesta expressed intentions to leave Thailand, citing these legal complications and the adverse effects on his animal sanctuary as primary motivators.
Yuyee, whose legal disputes with Cuesta have reportedly spanned several years, was previously convicted of drug possession and served six years of her fifteen-year sentence. Their relationship has often been contentious, revolving around allegations and mutual accusations over the management of their sanctuary and personal conflicts.
Javi Oliveira, a close friend of Cuesta, provided insight on social media about the conditions he is facing post-arrest. “Frank is sleeping there, on the floor, and the family must be bringing him food,” he shared, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the strict nature of the Thai legal system. Oliveira also hinted at potential ulterior motives behind the anonymous complaints, indicating it wasn't the first time someone had attempted to undermine Cuesta's reputation.
Responding to the incident, the Thai government's official statement reaffirmed its commitment to wildlife protection, stressing the importance of compliance with local laws. They urged both local residents and foreigners to respect wildlife laws to avoid similar situations. “The government reaffirms its commitment to wildlife protection and the strict enforcement of related laws,” the statement read.
Cuesta's sanctuary has become the center of attention not just for the animal rescue work it promotes but also for the legal battles interwoven with personal struggles. Cuesta had previously stated, “There will be several changes at the sanctuary due to the legal mess. I will not leave the animals alone nor will they come out of here,” indicating his commitment to the rescued animals even amid personal turmoil.
His arrest has sparked widespread reactions on social media, particularly among his followers and fans who have supported his work over the years. Many are left wondering about the future of Libertad and the animals residing there, amid the uncertainty surrounding Cuesta’s legal circumstances.
Despite the current challenges, Frank Cuesta remains determined to fight against the allegations, focusing on the plight of the animals he has dedicated his life to protecting. For now, his sanctuary's future appears precarious as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of his wildlife possession and the impact of his tumultuous relationship with Yuyee.
The situation highlights not only the strict enforcement of wildlife laws in Thailand but also the complex interplay of personal and legal issues Cuesta faces as he navigates this harrowing chapter of his life.