Phuket tightens patrols after foreign tourists spear parrotfish
Phuket authorities increased patrols at Kata Beach after social media videos showed foreign tourists illegally spearfishing protected parrotfish in a marine conservation area on May 9. The incident prompted officials to pledge additional wa
PHUKET — 11 May 2026, Authorities have increased patrols at Kata Beach after foreign tourists were reportedly seen spearfishing protected parrotfish and handling starfish in a marine conservation area.
Officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, led by Naret Chuphueng, along with Phuket Marine Police Division 8, Phuket Tourist Police Division 2, forestry police and Karon municipality inspected the area near Kata Beach on the evening of 10 May following the circulation of social media videos showing foreign tourists diving and spearing parrotfish near Phuket Ska Bar.
The tourists had reportedly brought the fish onto the beach, attracting crowds of onlookers who photographed the incident. Videos also showed starfish being removed from the water and handled by visitors.
Authorities said no suspects were found during the inspection.
A local business owner told officials that on 9 May at around 20:00, a group of unidentified Chinese tourists were seen spearfishing among rocks off the southern end of Kata Beach before bringing parrotfish ashore. The owner said attempts had been made to stop the group, but they ignored warnings. He urged authorities to install information signs and increase monitoring in the area, which is popular for marine activities.
Karon municipality said warning signs would be installed along the beachfront and municipal officers would conduct more regular inspections. Police in Karon district also pledged to increase patrols.
Officials additionally warned businesses, residents and tourists that parrotfish are protected under Phuket environmental protection regulations introduced in 2024. The species, listed under the Scaridae family, is prohibited from being caught or possessed.
Violators face penalties under the Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act, including up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.
Authorities urged the public to report illegal fishing or possession of protected marine species through the marine protection hotline 1362.
