Authorities Investigate Coral Breaking Incident in Nha Trang

Vietnamese authorities in Khánh Hòa province are actively investigating an incident involving a group of individuals suspected of breaking coral in Nha Trang. Images shared on social media depicted people carrying numerous coral branches along the beach, sparking public outrage.

The alleged incident took place in the Hòn Chồng area, a location currently undergoing enhanced protection measures to aid the recovery of its coral reef ecosystem. The Nha Trang Bay Management Board confirmed it is collaborating with the Bắc Nha Trang Commune People's Committee to identify the individuals involved and take appropriate action if violations are confirmed.

Officials have identified the group seen in the images as guests staying at a local hotel. These individuals have been summoned for questioning, and authorities are working with the Bay Management Board to document the incident and proceed with legal measures. The Bay Management Board had temporarily demarcated the coral reef area at Hòn Chồng - Đặng Tất from May to August 2026 to facilitate coral recovery, installing warning signs and deploying patrols to deter damage.

Violators face significant penalties under current regulations. According to Decree 38/2024/NĐ-CP, illegally harvesting protected aquatic species can result in fines ranging from 30 to 40 million Vietnamese dong. If the approximately 13 kg of coral reported to be collected is confirmed as illegal harvesting of protected species, the perpetrators could face these penalties. Furthermore, fines of 50 to 100 million dong can be imposed for actions that destroy fishery resources, aquatic ecosystems, or the habitats of endangered species, potentially including the use of destructive fishing gear.

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The Nha Trang Bay Management Board is coordinating with the People's Committee of Bắc Nha Trang ward to verify information about a group of people breaking coral at Hòn Chồng.