Surat Thani –
A dugong was found dead with its mouth tied with rope and fangs cut out on a beach in the Chaiya district.
The Surat Thani Governor Witchawut Jintoe and the Chaiya Fisheries Office Chief Mr. Sanae Rattanasamnieang yesterday (December 4th) went to the Naai Amphoe Beach in the Takrob sub-district.
Mr. Sanae told the Phuket Express “The dead dugong is about 15 to 20 years old. It is about two meters long and weighs about 200 kilograms. It is believed that the dugong died at least four days before it was found.”
“Its mouth was tied with a rope and wounds from possible knives were found on its body. Its fangs were cut off. Some people believe that its fangs are holy and use them to make an amulet. An autopsy is being conducted to find its exact cause of death,” Mr. Sanae explained.
Governor Witchawut said, “This is the second dugong found dead within two months in Surat Thani. It is a big loss for nature and the environment as the dugong is a reserved wild animal at risk of extinction.”
“If this dead dugong is proven as being hunted by humans, those people will face legal action,” Governor Witchawut noted.
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