In an underwater mission, Phi Phi National Park officials and volunteer divers retrieved over 60 meters of nets abandoned near coral reefs by illegal fishing groups. They rescued marine animals still trapped in the nets and released them back into nature.
On 12 August 2026, reporters reported that the underwater operations team from Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi Province, together with volunteer divers, shared images of dead and living marine animals—including fish, shrimp, and crabs—entangled in nets left by illegal fishing groups, also known as ghost fishing boats, within the park area.
The nets discovered were over 60 meters long, abandoned near the sunken Royal Kled Kaew shipwreck, which serves as an artificial reef and a deep dive site at Phi Phi Leh Island. The diving team worked to free the living fish and other marine animals from the nets and promptly recovered the net debris from the water.
Mr. Saengsuri Songthong, the park chief, revealed that the images show the underwater operations team collaborating with volunteer divers to conduct an underwater survey at a main dive site. Their objective was to perform a cleanup activity in honor of National Mother's Day on 12 August, but instead they found nets likely left by small illegal fishing boats that had entered the restricted area, abandoning fishing gear and nets.
These abandoned nets pose a danger to all underwater life. The park has continuously patrolled and enforced regulations to prevent illegal fishing, but admits that offenders take advantage of moments when officials are not present. As a result, fishing gear and equipment are frequently found discarded near coral reefs.
The park appeals for cooperation to cease illegal fishing in the protected area, as it directly harms the marine ecosystem. To sustainably benefit from nature, everyone must help protect it. Importantly, those caught fishing illegally within the national park will face strict legal action.