On December 2, Dr. Kongkiat Kittiwatanawong, a marine ecosystem expert at Thailand's Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, reported a shark attack incident at Nang Thong Beach in Phang Nga Province. A 57-year-old German tourist was bitten by a bull shark while in the surf zone, approximately 1.5 meters deep.
The injury measured 15x30 centimeters, described as severe but not penetrating bone or causing tissue loss. The shark, estimated at over 2 meters in length, delivered a bite likely as part of its exploratory behavior. “Bull sharks typically bite to test whether an object is edible. If it isn’t, they release it, but due to their strong jaws, the resulting injuries are often significant,” Dr. Kongkiat explained.
When asked about the presence of sharks near Phang Nga’s beaches, Dr. Kongkiat confirmed that sharks, including bull sharks, are occasionally spotted, especially in turbid waters near the surf zone. Although shark attacks on humans are rare in the area, he advised avoiding swimming in murky waters, where sharks are more likely to be present.
This rare incident highlights the need for increased awareness and precautionary measures for both tourists and local authorities.