Authorities are currently looking into the identities of foreign tourists who were featured in a viral video handling a sea turtle near Cape Panwa, Phuket. This has raised concerns regarding potential harm to protected marine wildlife. The Phuket Times shared the video on Saturday, May 23, showing several tourists taking turns to hold the turtle while posing for photos and videos. The accompanying caption claimed, “Foreigners caught a sea turtle for a photograph. The animal struggled to escape from them but got caught again. This happened near Cape Panwa.”
The footage ignited a debate on social media, with some users criticizing the tourists for their interference with marine life, while others contended that the turtle did not appear to be injured. Many users urged officials to clarify whether the actions of the tourists constituted a violation of Thai law or caused harm to the animal.
Local fishermen informed Channel 7 that they had previously observed two sea turtles swimming in the vicinity of Cape Panwa, noting that these creatures typically avoid human presence and fishing boats. They speculated that the turtle seen in the video might have been a juvenile separated from its natural habitat due to rough sea conditions.
On May 25, the environmental awareness account Environman highlighted the serious penalties associated with touching sea turtles and other wildlife in their natural habitats in various countries. They pointed out that while Thailand’s Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act primarily addresses hunting and possession of protected species, actions that cause harm or distress to wildlife could still result in legal repercussions.
The account further stated that the stress and behavioral changes resulting from human interaction may not be immediately observable but can adversely impact marine ecosystems over time.
As of now, Channel 7 reported that no official statement has been released by government agencies regarding the incident. However, authorities are actively investigating the matter and considering potential legal actions against those involved.
A similar incident was noted last November in Similan Island, Phang Nga, where a foreign tourist was filmed feeding a turtle a rubber wristband during a diving excursion. Although officials were able to locate and assist the turtle, the information concerning the arrest of the foreigner involved was not disclosed.
Source: The Thaiger
