On December 6, reports indicated that the release of four Thai crew members detained on Myanmar’s Kawthaung Island remains unresolved. The Thai-Myanmar Township Border Committee (TBC) has been coordinating with its Myanmar counterpart, but authorities in Kawthaung have yet to confirm the return of the crew and their fishing vessel.
Pending Official Directive
The delay is attributed to the absence of a direct order from the Myanmar government in Naypyidaw. The final decision—whether to release all 31 detained crew members, only the four Thai nationals, or include the fishing vessel—remains unclear.
Legal and Administrative Steps
Authorities in Kawthaung have cited the need to complete multiple legal and administrative procedures before any release:
- Investigation and Court Proceedings: The case involves potential charges such as illegal entry or unauthorized fishing in Myanmar’s territorial waters.
- Immigration Processes: Immigration authorities in Kawthaung must finalize necessary clearances before repatriation can occur.
Currently, the four Thai crew members are under the custody of Kawthaung police but are not being held in detention cells.
The Thai authorities continue to monitor developments and maintain communication with Myanmar officials to expedite the resolution of this matter.