Thai Fishing Boats Fired Upon by Myanmar Navy: One Drowned, 31 Detained
Incident Occurs off Ranong Coast; Thai Authorities Urge Caution
On November 30, 2024, a Myanmar navy patrol opened fire on Thai fishing boats near Ranong province, Thailand, resulting in one fisherman drowning and the detention of 31 crew members.
The confrontation arose when Thai vessels were found operating within Myanmar's waters, according to the Thai Ministry of Defence.
Of 15 boats present, two were directly targeted, prompting three fishermen to jump overboard; one perished while two were rescued.
Myanmar authorities detained one vessel, comprising 31 crew members, and transported them to Yan Cheuk Island.
Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai clarified that shots were intended as a warning rather than an aggressive attack.
Efforts are underway by the Thai navy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiate the release of the detained crew, who include four Thai nationals and 27 Burmese.
The Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre confirmed the boats were fishing 20 kilometers west of Koh Phayam when accosted.
Amid rising land-border tensions with Myanmar, Thai military and government officials continue to assess the incident's legal ramifications and possible breaches of international law.
The Thai Department of Fisheries urged fishermen to remain cautious near the maritime boundary to prevent such clashes.