The whale sharks spotted in the sea off Chumphon are indicative of the ecological health of the sea, according to Jatuporn Buruspat, director general of Thailand’s Marine and Coastal Resources department. Huruspat said that whale sharks are friendly, don't attack people, and are a protected species under the law. Individuals found to have harmed these marine mammals face up to four years in jail and/or a fine of THB 40,000, he said.
The warning was issued following the appearance of photos on social media showing a group of swimmers playing with a whale shark around Ko Lao Ped Lao Kai island off Chumphon.
If a tourist boat encounters a whale shark, it should decrease its speed and keep at least 50 meters away from the animal to ensure that it doesn’t hamper its movement. Divers and swimmers are advised to stay not do anything which might threaten or block the shark.