Chinese tourists have sparked outrage after allegedly spearfishing protected marine life and handling starfish at Kata Beach in Phuket. The incident, captured on video and shared by the Phuket Times page, has prompted calls for authorities to investigate and take legal action over potential harm to Thailand’s marine ecosystem.
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According to reports, the group entered the water at Kata Beach in Karon subdistrict, Mueang district, Phuket, before catching a parrotfish during a night dive. The fish, known in Thai as “pla nok kaew”, is considered an important species for maintaining coral reef ecosystems because it feeds on algae and helps keep coral healthy.
The video also showed a Chinese female tourist holding a starfish while taking selfies on the beach. At the same time, a Russian tourist walking past reportedly asked to pose for photographs with the captured parrotfish. The footage drew criticism from witnesses and social media users after it was posted online.
The Phuket Times Phuket Time page stated: “#Phuket - Chinese tourists night diving at Kata Beach spearfishing ‘parrotfish’, a protected species important to coral reef ecosystems. Russian tourists passing by asked to hold the fish for photos, and they also picked up a starfish so women in the group could take selfies.”
The clip quickly spread online, with many social media users demanding immediate enforcement action from relevant authorities. Several comments questioned whether those involved would face penalties despite the clear footage, while others argued that Thai citizens would likely have already been tracked down and prosecuted in similar circumstances.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
Marine conservation concerns were also widely discussed following the incident. Parrotfish play a key role in protecting coral reefs, while marine experts and environmental groups frequently warn against removing starfish and other sea creatures from the water for photographs because the animals can suffer severe stress or die from the exposure.
The daily News reported that the incident has renewed debate about tourist behaviour at Thai beaches and the protection of marine resources in Phuket. Authorities are now being urged to identify those involved and determine whether wildlife protection laws or marine conservation regulations were breached.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 11 May 2026