Dozens of Giant Catfish Die in Polluted Pond Near Factory
Dozens of giant catfish were found dead in a pond after polluted water from a nearby factory flowed in, leaving the owner devastated. The 81‑year‑old owner said he had raised the fish for years for pleasure and never intended to sell them. Authorities are being asked to investigate the water source and test samples to determine the cause.
Dozens of giant catfish have been found floating dead in a pond after polluted water from a nearby factory flowed in, leaving the owner heartbroken. The owner, 81‑year‑old Suthin Ploythapthim, said he had raised the fish for many years purely for enjoyment and never intended to sell them. A Facebook user first posted pictures of the large fish dying, sparking online concern after they had survived over five years in the pond.
On October 8, 2025, reporters visited the 20‑rai pond in Soi Yu Rue Rueang, Moo 13, Sala Daeng subdistrict, Bang Nam Prio district, Chachoengsao province. They observed dozens of the giant catfish lifeless on the surface, emitting a foul smell. Suthin said the cause of death is still unclear, though some suspect water from chicken‑washing; he doubts that because the area has long raised pangasius without issue. He suspects a nearby paper factory that reportedly discharges wastewater without treatment, and wants authorities to trace the water’s path and test samples.
He added that the financial loss cannot yet be estimated, as many fish remain and the exact number dead is unknown. Local children who usually come to watch the fish now see them dead, causing sorrow and worry. Villagers are waiting for relevant agencies to examine water quality and determine whether the deaths stem from pollution or other factors before assigning responsibility.
