Authorities Uncover Smuggled Diesel on Trawler Operating Near Ranong
PUBLISHED: 8 Feb 2025 at 18:03
Charges have been filed against Myanmar fishermen operating illegally in Thai waters off the coast of Ranong province.
The 3rd Naval Area Command seized two fishing trawlers occupied by Myanmar crew members on Friday after confirming their unauthorized presence southwest of Koh Khang Khao in Ranong. The Royal Thai Navy escorted the vessels to a local deep-sea port on Saturday morning.
Seven Myanmar nationals were aboard the trawlers, prompting a thorough search. Their mobile phones were confiscated for further investigation.
It was revealed that the captain of one boat lacked proper maritime documentation, and the vessel was not flying a flag. Additionally, the boat was devoid of fishing equipment, raising concerns over potential illegal activities.
The second vessel, identified as a deep-hulled boat with three engines, was discovered carrying eight 200-litre tanks of undeclared diesel fuel.
Initial charges against the crew members include entering Thailand without proper authorization, lacking appropriate registration, and smuggling fuel.
Ongoing investigations are expected to unveil more details surrounding the incident.
In a related context, on November 30 of the previous year, a Myanmar navy patrol boat engaged with Thai fishing boats off the Ranong coast, resulting in the drowning of one fisherman and the detention of 31 crew members, including four Thais and 27 Myanmar nationals.
This month, reports have surfaced indicating that Thai authorities are still working to secure the release of the four detained Thai fishermen.
The crew members are presently held in the Myanmar border town of Kawthaung.
