Tigers removed from a Buddhist temple, after accusations of wildlife trafficking and animal abuse

Wildlife authorities in Thailand have started removing tigers after accusations of animal maltreatment and wildlife trafficking.

Three of the 137 tigers at the temple in Kanchanaburi state were moved on Monday. The 1,000-staff operation expected to be continued for 7 days.

The monks, who deny all claims, reacted at first but gave up after court orders.

The tigers are being taken to animal refuges, authorities said.