Thai Navy Detains Cambodian Fishing Boat off Trat

Pictures courtesy of Sattahip News

Thai naval forces have detained a Cambodian fishing vessel and its four crew members for illegally operating in Thai waters off Trat province, reinforcing ongoing maritime enforcement in the eastern Gulf of Thailand. The arrest was carried out on 6 January 2026, by the First Naval Area Command, resulting in the seizure of the vessel and the transfer of the suspects to local police for prosecution. Authorities say the action underscores Thailand’s continued efforts to protect its maritime sovereignty and fisheries resources.

The operation was conducted by HTMS Thepha under the Gulf of Thailand Protection Task Group. The Cambodian-flagged fishing boat was found conducting fishing activities approximately 2,000 yards west of the Thai–Cambodian Exclusive Economic Zone demarcation line. The location was about seven nautical miles from the coast of Trat province, placing it clearly within Thailand’s territorial waters.

Naval officers inspected and verified the vessel’s position before determining that it was engaged in illegal fishing within Thai jurisdiction. Following this confirmation, the navy took control of the boat and detained all four Cambodian nationals on board. The vessel and crew were then escorted ashore for legal processing.

The suspects were handed over to Khlong Yai Police Station in Trat province to face multiple charges under Thai law. These include offences under the Act Governing the Right to Fish in Thai Fishing Waters B.E. 2482 (1939) and the Fisheries Royal Ordinance B.E. 2558 (2015). Additional charges relate to unlawful entry into the Kingdom under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).

The First Naval Area Command stated that the operation was conducted in full compliance with both Thai domestic law and international legal principles. Naval authorities reiterated that all procedures, from interception to detention, followed established legal and operational standards. The navy emphasised that such enforcement actions are routine and necessary to prevent illegal exploitation of marine resources.

Officials also highlighted the broader implications for maritime security and fisheries management. Illegal fishing by foreign vessels can impact local livelihoods, marine sustainability, and national sovereignty. Continued patrols are intended to deter further incursions and maintain order in Thai waters.

Sattahip News reported that the detained crew will remain in police custody while legal proceedings move forward through the Thai judicial system. The navy has confirmed that patrols and surveillance operations will continue across sensitive maritime areas, particularly near international boundaries. Authorities say enforcement will remain consistent to safeguard Thailand’s rights and interests at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Thai naval forces detained a Cambodian fishing vessel and four crew members on 6 January for illegal fishing off Trat.

• The boat was found about 2,000 yards inside Thai waters and seven nautical miles from the coast.

• The suspects face charges under fisheries and immigration laws and were handed to Khlong Yai Police.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Sattahip News 2026-01-10