Myanmar Grants Pardon to Four Thai Fishermen Detained Since November
The release follows diplomatic efforts amid tensions over fishing rights in disputed waters.
The government of Myanmar has issued a pardon for four Thai fishermen who were arrested in November 2024, following a series of diplomatic discussions between Thailand and Myanmar.
The pardoned individuals, identified as Virot Saphanthong Na Nakhon, Sunam Mongkutton, along with two others known only by their first names, Sonpong and Thavor, were serving time at Kawthaung prison, situated directly across from Thailand’s Ranong province.
The announcement of the pardon was made on Thursday and was shared via the X social media platform by a representative from Human Rights Watch Thailand.
The order was signed by Aung Lin Dwe, the Secretary General of the State Administration Council (SAC).
Following the announcement, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her gratitude for the pardon, which she stated reflects the strong bilateral relations between Thailand and Myanmar.
She received the information regarding the release from Thailand's Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa.
The Thai fishermen had been detained after their fishing boats were reportedly accused of entering disputed territorial waters.
The incident escalated on November 30, 2024, when Myanmar naval patrol boats engaged the trawlers with gunfire, leading to one crew member's death after he jumped overboard during the confrontation.
As part of the pardon, the fishermen, along with three Filipinos held at the same prison, are set to be deported back to Thailand based on humanitarian grounds and continued efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations.
This release is significant, considering that, earlier this year, Myanmar had released 151 Thai prisoners, leading to scrutiny regarding their involvement in various illicit activities, including online scams and gambling operations.
The pardoned individuals, identified as Virot Saphanthong Na Nakhon, Sunam Mongkutton, along with two others known only by their first names, Sonpong and Thavor, were serving time at Kawthaung prison, situated directly across from Thailand’s Ranong province.
The announcement of the pardon was made on Thursday and was shared via the X social media platform by a representative from Human Rights Watch Thailand.
The order was signed by Aung Lin Dwe, the Secretary General of the State Administration Council (SAC).
Following the announcement, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her gratitude for the pardon, which she stated reflects the strong bilateral relations between Thailand and Myanmar.
She received the information regarding the release from Thailand's Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa.
The Thai fishermen had been detained after their fishing boats were reportedly accused of entering disputed territorial waters.
The incident escalated on November 30, 2024, when Myanmar naval patrol boats engaged the trawlers with gunfire, leading to one crew member's death after he jumped overboard during the confrontation.
As part of the pardon, the fishermen, along with three Filipinos held at the same prison, are set to be deported back to Thailand based on humanitarian grounds and continued efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations.
This release is significant, considering that, earlier this year, Myanmar had released 151 Thai prisoners, leading to scrutiny regarding their involvement in various illicit activities, including online scams and gambling operations.
