Phuket officials investigate tourists seen handling sea turtle near Cape Panwa
Authorities are investigating foreign tourists seen in a viral video handling a sea turtle near Cape Panwa in Phuket, after the footage sparked debate over possible harm to protected marine wildlife.
Authorities are investigating the identities of foreign tourists seen in a viral video handling a sea turtle near Cape Panwa in Phuket, amid concerns the encounter may have harmed protected marine wildlife.
The Phuket Times Facebook page shared the footage on Saturday, May 23. The video showed several foreign tourists taking turns holding a sea turtle while posing for photographs and videos. In a caption accompanying the clip, the page said the foreigners had caught the turtle for a photograph and that the animal struggled to escape before being caught again.
The video triggered debate online. Some social media users criticised the tourists for interfering with marine wildlife, while others said the turtle did not appear injured. Several commenters called for officials to clarify whether the tourists' actions broke Thai law or caused harm to the animal.
Local fishermen told Channel 7 they had previously seen two sea turtles swimming near Cape Panwa and said the animals normally avoided people and fishing boats. They suggested the turtle in the footage may have been a young animal separated from its usual habitat by rough sea conditions.
Environmental awareness account Environman posted on May 25 that touching sea turtles and other wildlife in their natural habitat can carry serious penalties in several countries. The account said that while Thailand's Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act mainly covers hunting and possession of protected animals, acts that cause harm or distress to wildlife could also amount to legal violations.
According to the account, stress and behavioural changes caused by human interference may not be immediately visible but can still damage marine ecosystems over time.
Channel 7 reported that no government agency had yet issued an official statement on the case. However, the broadcaster said police and relevant officials were investigating the incident and considering possible legal action against those involved.
