Thai navy patrol vessels recently arrived in Ranong after rescuing crew members from Thai trawlers that were targeted by three Myanmar ships. The Myanmar navy patrol boat opened fire on a group of Thai fishing boats off the coast of Ranong province, resulting in one fisherman drowning and two others being injured. The injured individuals were promptly taken to a local hospital for medical attention.
According to the Thai Ministry of Defence, the incident occurred after 15 Thai fishing vessels were discovered operating between 4 and 5.7 nautical miles inside Myanmar waters. As a result, the Myanmar navy took action by firing at the Thai boats. In response, three fishermen jumped into the water, with one tragically losing his life while the other two were rescued by the Thai navy.
Reports indicate that the Myanmar navy detained one boat carrying 31 crew members, consisting of both Thai and Burmese individuals. The Thai navy is currently engaged in negotiations to secure the release of the detained crew members. The incident has prompted the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with Myanmar authorities to address the situation and evaluate any potential violations of international law.
Thai fishing boats have a history of entering Myanmar waters to access richer fish stocks, despite warnings from Myanmar authorities. The recent attack on the Thai vessels by the Myanmar navy has raised concerns about the safety of fishermen operating in the region. Following the incident, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has instructed relevant agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure the well-being of the detained crew members.
In light of the escalating tensions, the Department of Fisheries office in Ranong has advised operators of Thai fishing vessels to exercise caution when operating near maritime boundaries. The incident at sea coincides with reports of growing tensions on the land border between Thailand and Myanmar, emphasizing the need for diplomatic efforts to address border disputes and maintain peaceful relations between the two countries.
The Thai navy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant agencies are actively working to resolve the situation and provide support to the affected crew members. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to uphold international laws and ensure the safety of individuals working in the fishing industry. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding maritime boundaries and the importance of diplomatic dialogue in resolving cross-border conflicts.
