PUBLISHED: 29 Mar 2025 at 20: 23
Four Thai staff people detained by Myanmar authorities since November next year arrived in Ranong state on Saturday afternoon.
Ras Chaleechan, vice minister for foreign affairs, led a Thai delegation, including representatives from the Thailand-Myanmar Township Border Committee ( TBC ) and senior officials from relevant agencies, on a speedboat to Kawthaung province, Myanmar, to receive the crew members.
Their launch came after a reprimand granted by the Burmese government following political discussions. Mr Ras thanked the Myanmar authorities for granting mercy.
Upon their returning to Ranong, the squad members were warmly welcomed by their people.
The four team members were identified as boat captain Sunan Mongkuthong, 68, Sompong Wiwat, 61, Thavorn Promimit, 64, and Wiroj Saphanthong Na Nakhon, 69.
The Thai sailors were detained by Myanmar on Nov 30 after their fish boats were alleged to have intruded into disputed waters. Following a weapon assault on the vessels by Myanmar police boats, one staff member jumped into the water and died.
On Jan 4, the Burmese authorities released 151 Thai captives. When back in Thailand, they underwent a screening process to ascertain who were survivors deceived into the functions and who were active users of online gaming or call center fraud groups.