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Surat Thani Governor Takes Action to Restore Koh Phangan’s Tourism Safety Image Following Tourist Death

In response to a tragic incident that claimed the life of a South Korean tourist, Surat Thani Governor Thiratum Supavibulphol has initiated measures aimed at restoring the safety image of Koh Phangan’s tourism sector. The governor’s actions come after a passenger boat capsized off the island’s coast on December 29, 2024, resulting in the death of 30-year-old Jin Yun. The governor has ordered the prosecution of the boat driver for violating safety regulations and announced the revocation of a gun license for an individual who threatened tourists with a firearm.

The boat capsizing occurred around 3 a.m., approximately 40 meters from the shore, affecting both Thai and foreign passengers. Local rescue teams from the Kusonsattha Foundation successfully rescued 12 individuals, including boat drivers and crew members. However, Jin Yun was reported missing and was later found deceased on December 31, 2024, about three kilometers from Haad Rin beach. Authorities processed the body in accordance with legal protocols before sending it to his family.

Following the recovery of the body, Koh Phangan Police Superintendent Pol. Col. Panya Nirattimanon convened a meeting with investigators and informed the boat driver, identified as 46-year-old Phattanapong, of the charges against him. These charges include reckless behavior leading to death, as he allegedly disregarded safety announcements from the Meteorological Department regarding severe weather conditions. Additionally, he failed to enforce life jacket use among passengers, which contributed to the fatal incident. Phattanapong also faces charges related to illegal narcotics use and operating a boat without the necessary permits. He has confessed to the charges and expressed a willingness to negotiate compensation with the victim’s family.

In a separate incident, a Thai man was arrested for threatening a foreign tourist with a shotgun in Koh Phangan on January 1, 2025. The suspect, 49-year-old Denchai, was apprehended by local police, who discovered the firearm and ammunition in his home. He faces serious charges, including attempted murder and illegal possession of a firearm in public areas.

In light of these incidents, Governor Supavibulphol has mandated the revocation of Denchai’s gun license and has called for enhanced collaboration between local authorities and police to ensure the safety of tourists. The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive safety image for Koh Phangan, which is vital for the region’s economy and tourism industry. The local government is under pressure to swiftly rebuild public confidence in the safety of the area.

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