Koh Samui residents protest against horse-riding business

More than 300 residents of Koh Samui protested against a local horse-riding business, demanding that the operator leave the island. Led by Veerapol Watcharasinthu, chairman of the Bang Kao Community Committee, demonstrators from the Taling Ngam, Na Mueang, and Maret subdistricts cited ongoing issues lasting over a year.

Residents alleged that the business has caused significant problems, including leaving horse manure uncollected on public beaches and allowing horses to wander into community areas to consume agricultural produce. Despite previous warnings from district chief Amorn Chumchuay and various authorities, residents claim the issues have persisted.

On September 29, district officials and municipal enforcement officers seized 22 horses after the operator allegedly failed to comply with official instructions, resulting in a legal fine. Following the protest, community leaders led residents to the Koh Samui Police Station to file a formal complaint against the operator.