Thai - Cambodia Conflict Authorities Urge Fishing Boats to Avoid Cambodian Waters

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin.

 

Authorities have issued an urgent warning to all fishing vessels operating in coastal areas near the disputed boundary. The directive, released by the Royal Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre (Thai-MECC), advises extreme caution and avoidance of Cambodian waters due to the current unstable situation.

 

The announcement was circulated by the Thai Fisheries Association on 25 July and outlines a series of safety protocols for Thai fishermen. The alert comes in the wake of continued military confrontations on land between Thailand and Cambodia, raising concerns of potential maritime spillover.

 

According to the notice, Thai fishing vessels are urged to:

 

1. Avoid sailing near the maritime boundary between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Kingdom of Cambodia during this period of unrest.

 

2. Exercise heightened vigilance, especially when operating in zones close to the border.

 

3. Immediately report any sightings of Cambodian naval vessels or armed maritime patrols to authorities.

 

Fishermen who encounter Cambodian military ships are instructed to contact either the Thai-MECC operations centre or the Royal Thai Navy.

 

The alert underscores the seriousness of the situation, with officials describing the maritime climate as “abnormal and potentially dangerous.” While no direct confrontations have yet been reported at sea, the proximity of naval forces from both sides has prompted increased surveillance and readiness.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-07-26