Thai Fisherman Killed, 31 Crew Held As Myanmar Navy Fires On Fishing Fleet

Myanmar’s navy opened fire on Thai fishing vessels on Saturday, leaving one fisherman dead and detaining 31 crew members, according to Thailand’s Defence Ministry.

The incident occurred when two of 15 Thai fishing boats strayed 4 to 5.7 nautical miles (7.4 to 10.6 km) into Myanmar’s territorial waters. Spokesperson Thanatip Sawangsang reported that three fishermen jumped overboard during the attack; one drowned, while two were rescued by the Thai navy.

Myanmar’s navy detained one of the boats, holding 31 crew members. Negotiations are underway between Thai authorities and Myanmar’s military to secure their release, Thanatip added.

Myanmar’s junta has yet to comment on the incident. Meanwhile, Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura stated that diplomatic efforts are ongoing and that legal assessments are being made to determine if any international laws were breached.

In response to the incident, Thai authorities in Ranong province, bordering Myanmar, urged fishing vessels to exercise caution near the maritime boundary.

This confrontation comes amid ongoing instability in Myanmar, which has been mired in conflict since a 2021 military coup. The junta’s crackdown has fueled a fierce rebellion, with insurgent groups gaining control over border regions and advancing into previously stable areas.

Reports of increased tensions at the land border have also surfaced recently, but Thailand’s army dismissed these claims, suggesting they were exaggerated.