Rangers from Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park rescued nearly 100 marine animals after discovering an illegal fish trap submerged in a coral reef off Bida Nok Island, a renowned diving spot in Krabi province.
Park chief Saengsuree Songthong stated that underwater patrols found the large trap on the western side of the island on Saturday during a routine inspection. Recognising the immediate danger to local wildlife in the ecologically rich zone, divers acted quickly to open the top of the net and release all the trapped creatures back into the ocean.
Due to the trap's large size and challenging underwater terrain, officers were unable to retrieve the equipment immediately. They recorded images and GPS coordinates to help them to plan a safe removal operation.
Bida Nok Island is a world-famous diving destination, known for its shallow coral reefs and diverse marine life, attracting large numbers of domestic and foreign tourists annually.
Authorities warn that illegal fishing of any sort in protected zones severely threatens the marine ecosystem and harms Krabi's eco-tourism reputation.
Saengsuree emphasised that setting traps in national parks, especially within coral reefs, is a serious violation that leads to the unnecessary loss of marine life.
He added that park authorities are actively attempting to identify the perpetrators, while increasing patrol frequency around the islands and nearby areas to prevent repeat offenses.
The park’s management is urging local residents, tour operators and tourists to report immediately any illegal fishing activities or unauthorised traps to help preserve the region's natural marine resources.
