Dead coral seized at meditation sanctuary

PHANG NGA: About 37 kilograms of dead coral was seized at a meditation center in Koh Yao Noi yesterday.

The raid at the Mooktawan Meditation Sanctuary was conducted by officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) Region 6, after Phang Nga Governor Pakkapong Tawiphat alerted them to its presence.

“The coral was being used to decorate the premises,” said DMCR official Suchat Rattanaruengsri. “According to the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act BE 2535 (1992), section 19 and 47, this breach of law is punishable by a maximum of 4 years in prison, a 40,000 baht fine, or both.”

Officers seized a total of 30 pieces of coral and transported them to Koh Yao Police Station. However, some of it was too deeply embedded in the ground and walls to be removed.

The owner of the meditation center, whose name is being withheld by police, is being called in for further questioning.

— Winai Sarot