PUBLISHED : 1 Dec 2023 at 04:00
Four more Thai workers taken hostage by Hamas in Israel were released during the fifth round of handovers on Wednesday evening, while 17 Thai nationals who had been freed earlier by the militant outfit in Gaza arrived at Suvarnabhumi airport yesterday.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the four Thais are Paiboon Ratnil, Kong Saelao, Chakraphan Sikhena and Chalermchai Saengkaew. They have all had a medical check-up at an Israeli hospital, where Thai embassy officials are now taking care of them.
Arrangements have been made for them to contact their families from the hospital. At present, 23 Thai hostages have been released, including the 17 returnees, while nine remain in captivity.
The ministry congratulated the families of the four Thais, and thanked all involved in the negotiation process leading to their release.
Meanwhile, the first group of released hostages arrived at Suvarnabhumi airport yesterday at 3.10pm.
They were greeted by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin via video conference call. The premier said he was delighted to see they had returned.
Foreign Affairs Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said he was concerned about their mental health, but fortunately, everyone appeared to be in good shape both mentally and physically.
“There are nine Thai hostages left in Gaza, and we believe all related parties who have been working on the negotiation mission will continue our work until all Thais are freed and returned home,” he said.
Uthai Sangnual, a representative of the detained Thai labourers, told the media at the airport that he had been taken care of reasonably well while in captivity. He said he was in good spirits.
He said he did not know the fate of the remaining hostages. He expressed his condolences for the 39 Thais who lost their lives and congratulated those who had safely returned home.
“I would like to thank all parties who helped us and got us back home. I hope we can all enjoy a safe return as soon as possible,” he said.