Phuket –
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has launched a coordinated investigation following reports that a group of Chinese tourists illegally shot a parrotfish while diving near Kata Beach. The incident, widely circulated on social media, has sparked public concern over marine conservation and prompted authorities to enforce stricter measures.
Our previous story:
Now for the update:
On May 10th, around 6:30 p.m., officials from the DMCR’s 10th Regional Office, joined by Phuket Marine Police, Tourist Police, the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division, and Karon Municipality officers, inspected the southern headland of Kata Beach near Phuket Ska Bar. Preliminary findings revealed that the tourists had spearfished along the rocky reef and displayed the parrotfish, measuring under 50 centimeters, on the beach. Authorities condemned the act as both ecologically harmful and culturally inappropriate.
Under the 2024 Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment regulation protecting Phuket’s coastal zones, the capture or possession of parrotfish is strictly prohibited. Violators face up to one year in prison, fines of up to 100,000 baht, or both, under Section 100 of the National Environmental Quality Promotion and Preservation Act (1992).
In response, Karon Municipality and partner agencies are implementing urgent measures, including installing warning signs along the beachfront, increasing patrols by municipal officers and police, and raising awareness among visitors. Officials explained that parrotfish play a vital role in maintaining coral reef ecosystems, and their protection is essential to Phuket’s marine biodiversity.
Authorities are also urging the public and tourists to report any sightings of parrotfish captured or possession to the Forest Protection Hotline at 1362, available 24 hours a day, to ensure swift legal action.
