Thai crew’s fate uncertain as Myanmar delays release decision
The fate of the Thai crewmembers detained in Myanmar remains uncertain as the government awaits a decision from Nay Pyi Taw. Local officials are currently not empowered to authorise their release, following an incident near Ranong last week.
Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed yesterday, December 9, that negotiations for their release continue, with Thai officials having formally requested permission to visit the detained individuals in Myanmar. However, he noted that specific procedures and legal challenges need to be addressed.
Negotiations were initially expected to commence with the Thai-Myanmar Township Border Committee. However, Myanmar representatives indicated that the decision must come from the central government, prompting the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Thai embassy in Myanmar to engage with Myanmar’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.
“We can only wait,” Phumtham remarked, emphasising the current diplomatic standstill.
The incident involved four Thai crew members, along with 27 Myanmar nationals, aboard the trawler Sor Charoenchai 8 and other vessels. These boats were reportedly fired upon by a Myanmar navy vessel approximately 12 nautical miles (22 kilometres) off Koh Phayam’s coast.
Following the confrontation, 31 individuals were detained by Myanmar officials, and tragically, one crew member perished after jumping into the sea.
Local reports suggest the detainees have been transferred to a facility in Kawthaung, located across the border from Ranong. Despite initial assurances that the four Thai crewmembers would be released by December 6, they remain in custody, reported Bangkok Post.
Defence Ministry spokesperson Major General Thanathip Sawangsaeng stated that Thai officials are actively seeking updates on the release timeline.
“Local officials in Myanmar said they were still awaiting confirmation from their superiors before the Thais can be freed.”
The release of the fishermen hinges on a direct directive from Nay Pyi Taw, he added. In earlier responses, Thai officials utilised diplomatic channels to protest the attack, urging Myanmar to assess the proportionality of its actions.
