Phang Nga: Relatives of Thai fishing crew members detained by Myanmar soldiers have lit incense sticks in prayer, seeking divine protection for their loved ones and pressing the government to facilitate their swift return.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thawee Pae Yai, President of the Phang Nga Provincial Fisheries Association, visited Ban Nam Khem in Phang Nga Province to offer support to the families of the crew from the Thai fishing boat S. Charoenchai 8. The boat was pursued and fired upon by a Myanmar military vessel, resulting in casualties and the arrest of 31 crew members, including four Thais. The families in Thailand remain anxious as they have been unable to contact the detained individuals, prompting calls for urgent government intervention to secure their release.
Mr. Thawee emphasized that fishing operations should occur within Thai territorial waters, as agreed in fisheries meetings. He announced plans for the fisheries association to appeal to relevant authorities and the National Secur
ity Commission, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy, and Reform to expedite the crew’s return.
During his visit, several victims and boat captains asserted that they were fishing within permissible areas and did not encroach on Myanmar’s territory. They challenged comments by the Minister of Defense suggesting otherwise, noting that all fishing vessels are equipped with VMS devices to prevent such violations. The captains reaffirmed that no boats entered foreign waters, suggesting the incident may have occurred in a disputed area. Mr. Thawee condemned the Myanmar military’s use of firearms as excessive and called for the Minister of Defense to act swiftly to bring the crew home.
Mr. Chaithawat, whose brother Mr. Sompong is among the detained, expressed deep concern for his brother’s health, noting that he has a heart condition and may not have access to his medication. In desperation, Mr. Chaithawat resorted to spiritual appeals for his brother’s safe return.
The Fisheries Association of Thailand has fo
rmally appealed to high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, the Minister of Defense, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Commander of the Royal Thai Navy. They are urging a swift resolution to the situation, the return of the crew and the fishing boat, and compensation for the families affected. The association also seeks negotiations to address fishing-related conflicts and prevent future incidents.