PHUKET – A Russian national at the center of a public dispute over a Phuket mooring has explained that his aging vessel required protection from potential damage, following allegations that he threatened other boaters with a knife. The incident occurred at Nam Bor Bay, a popular swimming and snorkeling area where public moorings are maintained for shared use.

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The controversy emerged when a local boat operator filed a social media complaint accusing the Russian man—who was aboard his catamaran with his son—of occupying a public buoy and threatening to cut the ropes of any nearby boats. A widely circulated video appeared to show the man holding a knife during a confrontation with other mariners.

A Russian sailor sparked outrage in Phuket after threatening other skippers with a knife over a shared anchorage — but officials only issued a warning…

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In response, officers from the Phuket Marine Department and Marine Police inspected the catamaran, named Vimala, on October 22 while it was docked at a Chalong pier. Authorities confirmed that the Russian man possessed all required documentation and permits, and no illegal items were discovered on board. During the inspection, the boat owner explained that the fragile condition of his vessel led him to act out of concern that other boats docking too closely might cause damage.

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Officials conducted a review of public mooring regulations with the individual and issued a formal warning, noting that any future violations could result in immediate legal action. The case has since stirred public debate, with some online commentators calling for stricter enforcement and questioning whether foreign nationals receive preferential treatment compared to local residents, who they claim would likely face fines for similar conduct.

-Thailand News (TN)