Four Thai crew members from the Sor Charoenchai 8 fishing boat, detained by the Myanmar navy since November 30, have been sentenced to 4–6 years in prison for unauthorized fishing in Myanmar waters, according to reports.

 

A court on Kawthaung Island sentenced the boat owner to six years in prison and fined 200,000 kyat. The three crew members received four-year sentences and fines of 30,000 kyat each. Thai authorities have not yet commented on the case.

 

https://x.com/ThaiEnquirer/status/1868589113659867217

 

Revenge for Koh Tao?

[Update] Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra saod the sentencing was a part of standard legal procedures, with a pardon expected to follow. She said discussions for a pardon are ongoing and the timeline remains on track for their release after the New Year.

 

The government also emphasized that the sentencing is unrelated to recent arrests of Myanmar nationals in Ranong.

 

https://x.com/ThaiEnquirer/status/1868615171532554418

 

Just last week it was reported that the crew, including 4 Thais and 27 Burmese, had been released.

https://world.thaipbs.or.th/detail/myanmar-releases-thai-fishermen-and-seized-fishing-boat/55702