Phuket –
An act of collective compassion unfolded on Layan Beach as Thai citizens and foreign tourists worked together to rescue two olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) entangled in ghost nets and washed ashore amid turbulent seas.
One turtle was found dead upon arrival, while the other—a juvenile measuring 63 cm across the carapace and weighing approximately 22.6 kilograms—was still alive but in critical condition. The rescue was initiated following a report by beach security personnel, prompting immediate action by passersby and later marine officials.
According to the Upper Andaman Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center, the surviving turtle showed signs of significant distress. External injuries included abrasions penetrating the muscle tissue on both flippers, severe trauma to the left hind leg—nearly severed and rendered unusable—and visible shell deterioration from infection. Radiographic imaging revealed multiple fractures in the left hind leg and the presence of a fishing hook lodged in the esophagus.
Veterinarians have begun intensive treatment at the Siritharn Rare Marine Animal Rescue Center, planning surgery to remove the hook and repair the fractured bones. The goal is full rehabilitation and eventual release back into the wild.
The incident highlights ongoing threats posed by ghost fishing gear in the Andaman Sea, particularly during monsoon season. Authorities continue to urge greater vigilance in marine conservation and waste management to protect vulnerable sea life.
