Two Cambodian Workers Arrested for Poisoning Shrimp in Canal; Four Accomplices Still at Large
Two Cambodian workers were arrested in Rayong Province for poisoning shrimp in a canal; four accomplices fled the scene as authorities discovered dead fish and toxic materials at the illegal operation.
On April 29, 2025, disaster prevention officials from Muang Kaeng Subdistrict Municipality in Rayong received a complaint from residents near Klong Lam Tha Takian in Rayong Province about individuals illegally using poison to kill shrimp in the waterway. This activity was causing environmental damage to the area. Officials coordinated with rescue volunteers and Kaeng Police Station to investigate.
At the scene, authorities found a motorcycle with sidecar, six pairs of flip-flops, and flashlights used for spotting shrimp along the canal bank. After searching the nearby area, they spotted two Cambodian nationals acting suspiciously and apprehended them. A search revealed a backpack containing dead shrimp poisoned with toxic substances and tools used in the operation.
During interrogation, both suspects confessed to pouring poison into the water to kill shrimp, which they then collected for personal consumption and sale. They admitted to repeating this operation multiple times. Authorities determined there were six total perpetrators involved, but four managed to escape and remain at large pending prosecution. Officers surveying the canal found large numbers of dead shrimp scattered across the bottom, causing significant ecological damage.
The two suspects have been charged and handed over to Kaeng Police Station for legal proceedings. Authorities have also coordinated with Kaeng District Fisheries Office to investigate violations of fishing regulations. Muang Kaeng Subdistrict Municipality is urging residents to report any suspicious activity involving poisoning or illegal fishing methods to authorities immediately to protect natural resources in the area.