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

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Arrest, fine and deport this scum.

Dumb as dog poo.

UPDATE

Phuket Patrols Stepped Up After Tourists Spears Fish

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

Authorities in Phuket 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 carried out an inspection on the evening of 10 May following the circulation of social media videos showing the activity near Phuket Ska Bar.

The inspection team was led by Naret Chuphueng and included officers from Phuket Marine Police Division 8, Phuket Tourist Police Division 2, forestry police and Karon municipality. Authorities said no suspects were found during the operation.

According to local reports, the incident took place on 9 May at around 20:00 when a group of unidentified Chinese tourists were seen spearfishing among rocks at the southern end of Kata Beach. The tourists allegedly brought the parrotfish onto the beach, where crowds gathered to photograph the catch.

Videos shared online also showed starfish being removed from the water and handled by visitors. The footage prompted concern among officials because the area is protected under Phuket environmental regulations introduced in 2024.

A local business owner told authorities that attempts had been made to stop the tourists during the incident, but the group ignored repeated warnings. The business owner later urged officials to install more information signs and increase monitoring in the area due to its popularity for marine activities.

Karon municipality responded by announcing plans to install warning signs along the beachfront and increase regular inspections by municipal officers. Police in Karon district also pledged to step up patrols in the area to prevent further incidents involving protected marine species.

Officials reminded businesses, residents and tourists that parrotfish, which belong to the Scaridae family, are protected under Phuket environmental protection regulations. Catching or possessing the species is prohibited under the law.

Authorities warned that violators could face penalties under the Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act. Punishments include up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.

Khaosod reported that The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources also urged the public to report illegal fishing or possession of protected marine species through the marine protection hotline 1362. Officials said enforcement and public awareness efforts at Kata Beach would continue in the coming weeks.

Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 12 May 2026