Earlier on Thursday, the Thai tourist’s selfies with a starfish went viral on social media. She was widely condemned, as there is a ban on picking marine animals up from the sea, especially in the national park area. Netizens called on the authorities to take action against the tourist.

Later, the tourist, who used the Facebook name ohaee nutcha, apologised for her action and said she was not aware of the rule.

She also explained on her Facebook post that the pictures were taken in Trang and her guide had told her she could take a starfish from the sea to click selfies.

Wittaya Khunsan, Krabi Marine and Coastal Resources Preservation Centre chief, stated that investigation had showed the incident had taken place in Trang’s Had Chao Mai National Park and the officers had already contacted the guide.

Wittaya said catching marine animals in the national park area is illegal. He urged every tourist to comply with the rule and preserve the marine resources for others as well.