PHUKET — 11 May 2026, Following reports of foreign tourists spearfishing protected parrotfish and handling starfish in a marine conservation area, authorities have ramped up patrols at Kata Beach.
On the evening of 10 May, officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, led by Naret Chuphueng, conducted an inspection of the area near Kata Beach. This action came after social media videos surfaced, showing foreign tourists diving and spearing parrotfish close to Phuket Ska Bar.
These tourists were seen bringing the fish onto the beach, which drew a crowd of onlookers who captured the event on their cameras. The footage also depicted visitors removing starfish from the water and handling them.
During the inspection, no suspects could be identified. A local business owner reported that on 9 May around 20:00, a group of unidentified Chinese tourists was observed spearfishing among the rocks at the southern end of Kata Beach before bringing parrotfish ashore.
The owner mentioned that efforts were made to dissuade the group, but they disregarded the warnings. He called on authorities to install informational signs and enhance monitoring in the area, which is frequented for marine activities.
In response, Karon municipality announced plans to place warning signs along the beachfront and to increase the frequency of inspections conducted by municipal officers. Additionally, Karon district police committed to boosting patrols in the area.
Officials have also issued a reminder to businesses, residents, and tourists that parrotfish are protected under Phuket’s environmental protection regulations established in 2024. This species, classified under the Scaridae family, is forbidden from being caught or possessed.
Violators could face severe penalties under the Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act, which could include imprisonment for up to one year, fines reaching 100,000 baht, or both.
Authorities encourage the public to report any illegal fishing or possession of protected marine species by calling the marine protection hotline at 1362.
Source: Khaosod English
