Release of 4 Thai fishing crew awaits Myanmar's process: Phumtham
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai spoke at Government House today (January 6) regarding the progress of the release of the four Thai crew members detained by Myanmar authorities.
He stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, military, police, and all related agencies are working diligently on the matter. Myanmar responded by releasing 151 Thais, who were arrested and punished for other offences. while the process for the four crew members, who were arrested while fishing in disputed waters, involves legal procedures that must be followed. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant agencies are coordinating, and the process is the same as in any country. If Thailand arrests foreign nationals, similar procedures are followed. Therefore, we must wait for the process to be carried out fully.
Phumtham mentioned that the four individuals are currently in Kawthoung province, and Thai authorities have already brought their families to visit, which has reassured everyone that they are in good health.
When asked if the four individuals must serve a sentence from Myanmar first, Phumtham, who also holds the position of Minister of Defense, clarified that this is not the case. The legal process must be followed, and the situation is still ongoing. If foreign affairs are discussed openly, it could complicate efforts to resolve the issue. However, he emphasized that the government is committed to solving the problem and is continuously coordinating.
" The outcome depends on discussions, and the timeline cannot be predicted. It may conclude tomorrow or next week, depending on the process and Myanmar's involvement. Each case is different, and it cannot be treated as a precedent," Phumtham said.
He urged patience and advised not to focus too much on the details, as it could complicate the negotiations.
The incident occurred on November 30, 2024, when the Myanmar Navy fired at Thai fishing vessels and seized one Thai fishing boat along with its captain and 31 crew members, including 4 Thai nationals. Later, on December 16, the Kawthoung District Court sentenced the 4 Thai crew members to prison terms ranging from 4 to 6 years and imposed fines between 30,000 and 200,000 kyats ( US$10-62 ).
Previously, Thai authorities believed that Myanmar would release the 4 crew members on January 4, during Myanmar's Independence Day, as part of a mass pardon for prisoners.
