World News | Thailand: Chinese tourist jailed for selfie with starfish

Bangkok [Thailand]On June 28, according to the “Bangkok Post” report, two Chinese tourists were jailed and fined for posting photos of them holding starfish on social media.

Two Chinese tourists have lodged a police report after photos surfaced of two Chinese tourists stepping on a coral reef while diving in Ratchaya Island and holding up a starfish to take a selfie.

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According to police, Qin Sanyang and Wen Wen were taken by travel agency representatives to Chalong Station to meet investigators.

Three Chinese tourists were accused of holding up starfish and climbing onto a coral reef to take pictures while they were diving in Aura, near Racha Yai Island, on Thursday.

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Marine conservation officials reported them to police after they posted photos and video on social media on Friday.

Investigations conducted by the Phuket Marine and Coastal Resources Conservation Center revealed that the accused had indeed committed the crime.

The two tourists admitted their inappropriate behavior when questioned. They were charged by the police with violating a ministerial order to protect Racha Racha and the marine resources of Racha Racha.

Police intend to take them to court after collecting evidence. Authorities are hunting another tourist wanted for the same offence.

In recent years, Thai authorities have become increasingly proactive in protecting the marine environment. From new rules and regulations aimed at protecting coral reefs and endangered marine species, to closing entire islands to help surrounding areas recover from mass tourism. (Arnie)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from a syndicated news feed, the latest staff may not have revised or edited the body of content)