Thailand cracks down on illegal submarines at Racha Yai
On Sept 4, 2026, Thailand's Natural Resources Minister ordered authorities to arrest two submarines violating marine protection rules at Racha Yai Island, Phuket.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Thailand's Natural Resources Minister ordered strict enforcement against marine violations
- Authorities targeted submarines illegally anchored at Racha Yai Island in Phuket
- Improper mooring techniques risked severe damage to local coral reef ecosystems
- Two offending vessels were formally apprehended by marine protection officers
On September 4, 2026, Thailand's Minister of Natural Resources and Environment emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward ecological destruction, instructing all subordinate agencies to strictly enforce environmental laws to protect critical national marine resources.
This enforcement action was initiated following a confidential tip-off from local residents regarding diving submarines that had been permanently moored at Ao Thue on Racha Yai Island in Phuket province, violating established conservation guidelines for several consecutive days.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Following the complaint, Dr. Pinsak Suraswadi, Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, immediately dispatched the Protection, Suppression, and Protected Area Management Division to investigate the site and take legal action.
The ministerial regulations enacted in 2023 for Racha Yai and Racha Noi islands in Phuket serve as vital legal frameworks to shield fragile coral reefs from unregulated tourism pressures. Because these islands attract numerous diving vessels and speedboats annually, strict compliance with mooring protocols is essential to prevent mechanical damage to sensitive marine habitats.
Investigators identified specific violations under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment notification regarding coral protection measures in Phuket, which include:
- Tethering the stern of the vessel directly to the mooring base, risking structural displacement
- Sub-surface movement that drags moorings across coral reefs, causing breakage and habitat loss
- Prolonged parking that monopolizes public buoys and prevents other operators from using facilities
Consequently, enforcement teams proceeded to apprehend two submarines found violating the protective mandates, underscoring Thailand's commitment to safeguarding its southern marine biodiversity against reckless commercial operations.
Source: Khaosod Politics
Found something wrong in this article? Report an issue with this article
Comments
Leave a Comment