Myanmar to Pardon Jailed Thai Fishermen After Diplomatic Talks

[webfact]

 

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath

 

In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that the four Thai fishermen, recently sentenced to lengthy prison terms by Myanmar, are set to receive a pardon. The announcement follows tensions that erupted after a Myanmar navy engagement off the southern coast of Myanmar on November 30, which resulted in the capture and subsequent imprisonment of these seamen.

 

The complexity of the case began when the Myanmar navy intercepted three Thai fishing vessels in what was alleged to be unauthorised territorial waters fishing. Tragically, this incident also resulted in the death of a crew member and injuries to others when Myanmar patrol boats opened fire, towing one Thai trawler to Yan Cheuk Island near Kawthaung township.

 

The Kawthaung Provincial Court handed the vessel's owner a six-year sentence for illegal fishing and unlawful entry, accompanied by a fine of 200,000 Kyat (approximately 2,400 Thai Baht). Each of the three Thai crew members received four years, combining charges of illegal fishing and entry, alongside fines totaling 30,000 Kyat each (roughly 360 Thai Baht). Additionally, the 27 Myanmar crew members aboard were sentenced to a year for illegal entry.

 

Upon her return from Malaysia, Prime Minister Paetongtarn relayed that Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa had ensured her these judicial proceedings were procedural formalities. It's understood that conversations with Myanmar’s authorities have initiated a path towards pardon, contingent on internal legal processes concluding.

The timing of this potential clemency aligns with regular practices seen in Myanmar's legal system, often aiming to settle such affairs amicably before public holidays. This diplomatic initiative underscores Thailand's engagement with Myanmar, fostering a resolution amid strained circumstances.

 

Maris’s assurance signals optimism for a New Year return for the Thai fishermen, a gesture that might ease bilateral tensions. However, while acknowledging these discussions, Paetongtarn refrained from directly linking this case with the recent arrest of six Myanmar sailors in Thailand, apprehended for allegedly smuggling a massive quantity of salted shrimp.

 

As diplomatic efforts continue, observers await the unfolding of these negotiations, which symbolize the countries’ ongoing dialogue and cooperation, essential for maintaining regional stability. These developments offer a glimmer of hope for the affected families and underscore the importance of harmonious cross-border relations in resolving complex international issues, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2024-12-17

 

 

[Dave0206]

If they were knowingly fishing illegally they got off lightly ( obviously except the deceased fisherman) surely its time to position some thai naval ships in the disputed area.Unless all money has been spent on the much awaited submarine 

[watchcat]

Why not use some of them fighter jets they have? And while you're at it cose the border to Myanmar.

[KhunLA]

32 minutes ago, watchcat said:

Why not use some of them fighter jets they have? And while you're at it cose the border to Myanmar.

Because diplomacy works.  Your thinking is why the world is in the state that it is 

[Tropicalevo]

1 hour ago, KhunLA said:

Because diplomacy works.  Your thinking is why the world is in the state that it is 

I suspect that diplomacy did not resolve this case.

After multiple statements that the Thai fishermen were going to be released - and nothing happened, surprise, surprise.

Arrest some Burmese fishermen and 'Hey Presto'.

Coincidence?

I think not.

The illegal, military Burmese government only understands threats, power and money. (Not forgetting drugs of course.)

 

[KhunLA]

By nice if there was some accurate reporting of news, at least once in a while.   Same photo as in OP, states they were being released (dated 6 Dec), and processed at Myanmar Imm, soon to arrive at Ranong.

 

... "They were handed over yesterday in Kawthaung, Myanmar, and are expected to return to Thailand’s Ranong province today." ... 

[mran66]

Interesting to see whether this incident reduces Thai fishermen going fishing to Myanmar waters more than it increases Thai police going after Burmese people in Thailand... 

[Andrew65]

It would be very easy to stray into Myanmar waters there, it's right on the border at Ranong. (Victoria Point?).

[Nid_Noi]

13 minutes ago, Andrew65 said:

It would be very easy to stray into Myanmar waters there, it's right on the border at Ranong. (Victoria Point?).

Intricate mix of Ko (thais) and Pulo (Burmese) along the Kra Buri.

[Purdey]

The Burmese missed an opportunity to free the two kids given the death penalty (never implemented) in 2015. I don't think many people actually believe they are guilty.