Koh Larn, Pattaya, Chonburi –
A ‘Sea Walker’ boat operator in Pattaya has been arrested for allegedly illegally operating their service and conducting activities which increase damage to marine resources according to officials.
Officers led by the Director of Marine and Coastal Resources Region 2 Mr. Puchong Saritdeechaikul investigated a ‘Sea Walker’ operator at Koh Larn today after photos of tourists holding and moving marine animals went viral on social media with many people on social comments expressing outrage and anger.
Officers investigating found a two-storey boat carrying about 20 domestic Thai tourists today who were wearing seabed helmets with air pumps walking underwater 200 metres away from Ta Yai Beach.
The boat caretaker was arrested and taken to the Pattaya City Police Station and is accused of offending the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act, Coastal Resources Management Promotion Act, and Announcements from the Natural and Environment Ministry.
Meanwhile, tourists who were involved in pictures on social media will face charges of allegedly offending the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act.
Mr. Puchong told The Pattaya News, ‘Sea Walker’ activities have been operating for a long time in Pattaya. The ‘Sea Walking’ zone has yet to be set up with strict legal laws. There are about 23 ‘Sea Walker’ operators in Pattaya.â€
“We will have to make it clear about the ‘Sea Walker zoning’ soonâ€. Puchong added.
The name of the operator arrested and company was withheld as the case is still under investigation.
Story by The Pattaya News
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