BANGKO (Bernama): Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa has urged Myanmar to expedite the release of four detained Thai nationals and a seized fishing vessel involved in a recent incident.
Maris said the Director-General of the Department of East Asian Affairs summoned the Myanmar Ambassador to Thailand earlier today to address the matter.
The incident reportedly involved the Myanmar Navy firing on a Thai fishing vessel, killing one person and detaining four crew members.
Expressing grave concern, the Foreign Minister called on Myanmar to prioritise the swift release of the detained individuals and the vessel.
"We have requested Thai authorities be granted access to visit the four detained crew members,” he said in a statement on Monday.
He added that the Thai Ambassador in Yangon has been directed to meet Myanmar's Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs in Naypyidaw to further discuss the issue.
Maris also raised the matter with Myanmar's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, urging them to ensure the welfare of the detained Thai nationals and resolve the case quickly.
Maris reaffirmed that the safety and well-being of Thai citizens remain a top priority for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the government, pledging all necessary efforts to secure the crew’s release.
Thai local media reported that on Saturday, a Myanmar warship opened fire on three Thai fishing vessels allegedly operating near Thai waters, resulting in one fatality and the detention of 31 others.
The vessels were reportedly fishing around 20 kilometres west of Koh Phayam when Myanmar boats approached, causing the fishermen to cut their nets and speed away in an attempt to flee. - Bernama
