Phuket: Marine scientists were unable to determine the exact cause of death of a juvenile male dugong found washed ashore in Phang Nga's Takua Thung district on Friday, as the carcass was in an advanced state of decomposition.
The Upper Andaman Sea Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center on Sunday reported that the young dugong, measured about 150 centimetres long and weighed 24kg.
While it appeared generally healthy prior to the death, veterinarians found rope-like synthetic fibers inside its intestines alongside its primary food source, seagrass.
Tissue samples have been sent for laboratory analysis.
Officials noted that the animal's head, flippers and tail had been severed using a sharp instrument, though experts believe the mutilation occurred post-mortem.
Dugongs are protected under Thailand's Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act, making the unlawful handling or dismemberment of a carcass a criminal offence punishable by three to 15 years in prison, fines between 300,000 and 1.5 million baht, or both.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has directed the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) to thoroughly investigate the case.
DMCR Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi said officials from the agency's Regional Marine and Coastal Resources Office 6 were dispatched to examine the carcass.
The case was recorded with Khok Kloi police station before the remains were transferred to the Upper Andaman Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center for a detailed necropsy, he said.
"Authorities are gathering evidence and coordinating with relevant agencies to establish the facts surrounding the case," Mr Pinsak said.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding stranded marine animals or wildlife offences to contact the Forest and Marine Protection Hotline at 1362.
