Tragic: "Headless Dugong" Found on Koh Yao Noi—Nose Discarded, Head Cut Off After Death; Evidence Sent to Police to Hunt for Perpetrator
Tragic: 'Headless Dugong' Found on Koh Yao Noi—Nose Discarded, Head Cut Off After Death; Evidence Sent to Police to Hunt for Perpetrator — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.
A dead male dugong was found decapitated on Koh Yao Noi on April 9, with investigators confirming the animal’s nose had been discarded at sea. Forensic examination determined the dugong, measuring 2.2 metres long and weighing about 120 kilograms, died from intestinal illness before its head was expertly removed.
The case, involving protected wildlife, has prompted police to collect evidence and pursue the perpetrator, officials said. Phuket authorities are assisting in the investigation.
Evidence and Investigation Progress
Forensic veterinarians reported the head was severed by a sharp tool between the cervical vertebrae, with no signs of bruising or hemorrhage, indicating decapitation occurred more than two hours but less than 24 hours post-mortem. The chest bore marks from restraints used during the removal.
Investigators recovered the dugong’s nose in open water, which is being sent for DNA analysis. Police in Koh Yao received the evidence, and a complaint was filed under Section 17 of the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act.
Dugong Strandings and Legal Penalties
Department of Marine and Coastal Resources data show 112 dugongs stranded in Thailand from 2023 to 2025, with eight found decapitated or with tusks removed after death. In 2026, two strandings have been recorded, including this case.
Offenses involving dugong remains can result in up to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of 500,000 baht under Thai wildlife law.
Source: https://www.thairath.co.th/scoop/theissue/2926304
