Thai Fishermen Return Home After Pardon from Myanmar
Four Thai crew members released after diplomatic negotiations return to families following a lengthy detention.
Four Thai crew members, who had been detained by Myanmar authorities since November 30, 2024, arrived in Ranong province, Thailand, on March 29, 2025. Their release occurred following a pardon granted by the Myanmar government, which was facilitated through diplomatic negotiations.
Ras Chaleechan, the vice minister for foreign affairs, led a Thai delegation that included members of the Thailand-Myanmar Township Border Committee (TBC) and senior officials from relevant agencies to receive the crew members in Kawthaung, Myanmar.
The detained fishermen, who were alleged to have intruded into disputed waters while operating their fishing boats, had been involved in a critical incident where a gun attack on their trawlers by Myanmar patrol boats resulted in one crew member losing his life after jumping overboard.
The crew members were identified as boat skipper Sunan Mongkuthong, aged 68; Sompong Wiwat, aged 61; Thavorn Promimit, aged 64; and Wiroj Saphanthong Na Nakhon, aged 69. Upon their return to Thailand, they received a warm welcome from their families.
This event follows a broader pattern of releases in Myanmar, including an incident on January 4, when the Myanmar government released 151 Thai prisoners.
Following their release, Thai authorities have been screening returnees to distinguish between those who may have been victims of deception in illegal operations and those who were involved in criminal activities such as online gambling and scamming.
Ras Chaleechan, the vice minister for foreign affairs, led a Thai delegation that included members of the Thailand-Myanmar Township Border Committee (TBC) and senior officials from relevant agencies to receive the crew members in Kawthaung, Myanmar.
The detained fishermen, who were alleged to have intruded into disputed waters while operating their fishing boats, had been involved in a critical incident where a gun attack on their trawlers by Myanmar patrol boats resulted in one crew member losing his life after jumping overboard.
The crew members were identified as boat skipper Sunan Mongkuthong, aged 68; Sompong Wiwat, aged 61; Thavorn Promimit, aged 64; and Wiroj Saphanthong Na Nakhon, aged 69. Upon their return to Thailand, they received a warm welcome from their families.
This event follows a broader pattern of releases in Myanmar, including an incident on January 4, when the Myanmar government released 151 Thai prisoners.
Following their release, Thai authorities have been screening returnees to distinguish between those who may have been victims of deception in illegal operations and those who were involved in criminal activities such as online gambling and scamming.
