Dr Roy Sirimanne suggested that the Taiping Four stay at the zoo they are currently being held at. However, it is the same facility that thought nothing of the paperwork that allowed four illegal young gorillas to show up at their front door. They have no right even caring for the gorillas.

Sirimanne wrote: "In the meantime, all those NGOs and gurus of animal conservation bicker about where the Taiping Four should go to, sensationalising this issue, seeking sympathy and funds from philanthropists and well wishers. Never a thought about the four!"

I cannot speak for all, though I know many of those folks care enough to fight for the gorillas. Yes, you will get some low-life looking out for their best interests. Unfortunately, some do use great apes for their own gain. I am not one.

After reading the story of the four gorillas being ripped from their home, the first thought I had was how bad they were traumatised, the second was to get them back home, and the third was I hope all involved are brought to justice.

Anyone who viewed the documents and thought nothing was wrong with them should no longer be in a position to make decisions regarding animal welfare issues. Any person(s) with knowledge of the laws governing exporting of animals, especially endangered species, that allow this paperwork to pass through their hands and accept it, should be held accountable. Every effort should be made to see these four gorillas go back home.

I appreciate Sirimanne's stance regarding the poachers, though I strongly disagree with the gorillas staying at the Taiping Zoo. I'm not an advocate for moving gorillas around from zoo to zoo to fill the needs of each facility and breaking keeper bonds, but this is a case where those involved should not gain from this disgusting incident.