Sacks of Sand, No Fines: Locals left outraged as offenders caught stealing beach sand in Pattaya walk away with only a warning. PATTAYA, Thailand – City officials from Pattaya’s municipal enforcement team recently investigated an illegal sand removal operation behind Wat Chong Lom in Naklua, where individuals were found scooping beach sand into fertilizer sacks for private use. Authorities responded by warning the offenders, ordering them to return the sand to its original place. While no fines were issued this time, the public was reminded that such actions violate Thailand’s environmental protection laws. Under the law, those found guilty of illegally extracting natural resources like beach sand could face fines ranging from 5,000 to 100,000 baht or up to one year in prison—or both. Despite the warning, frustration among local residents is mounting. Many feel that verbal warnings are no longer enough, especially when such incidents are not isolated. Locals say sand theft in the area has been ongoing for weeks, with a white pickup truck seen making repeated visits to collect sand. Some suspect the involvement of contractors, pointing out the volume taken and how routine the activity seems. Criticism has also been directed at the apparent lack of meaningful penalties. The current system of mild enforcement, many believe, only encourages more violations. There’s a growing call for stronger action, as people worry that repeat offenders no longer fear the law and are growing bolder by the day. Some even argue that the issue is part of a broader pattern—lax rules, lenient fines, and limited monitoring—especially when the offenders are locals who know how to exploit regulatory gaps. Others are concerned about the damage to the environment and national assets, with calls to treat beach sand as a protected natural resource. Residents questioned what the stolen sand could even be used for, noting that salty beach sand is unsuitable for mixing with cement. Still, many worry the sand may be used for small-scale construction or resold. Some suspect it could involve foreign labor or subcontractors and urge officials to investigate thoroughly. Pattaya officials have urged the public to report similar incidents and remain vigilant in protecting local beaches. Authorities stress that preserving natural resources is not just a legal obligation, but a civic duty that affects the quality of life and tourism appeal of the city. The growing chorus of residents demanding action makes it clear: more decisive enforcement may now be the only way forward. Repeat Offenders Suspected: Ongoing sand theft behind Wat Chong Lom raises questions about enforcement and who is really behind it. Environmental Damage Ignored: Concerns grow over illegal sand removal as public demands tougher action to protect Pattaya’s coastline.